Auto Cars 2012 » Ferrari

2012 Novitec Rosso Ferrari 599 SA Aperta

simonie — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 13:37:02 +0000

NOVITEC ROSSO now makes the drop-top version of the Ferrari 599 SA Aperta even more powerful and fascinating. A twin-supercharger conversion bumps power output of the V12 from standard 670 to 888 hp and boosts peak torque to 636 lb/ft, giving the two-seater a top speed of more than 211 mph. The NOVITEC ROSSO options for the limited-edition special model also include extremely lightweight NOVITEC ROSSO forged wheels in a staggered combination with diameters of 21 and 22 inches, sport springs and a stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with butterfly valve.

The power increase by 218 hp to 888 hp at 8,400 rpm means the two-seater now offers power that is as superlative as its new peak torque of 636 lb/ft at 6,600 rpm, a gain of 178 lb/ft over its production brethren.

Together with the F1 Superfast six-speed transmission the NOVITEC ROSSO bi-compressor version delivers exceptional performance. From rest the car sprints to 62 mph in just 3.1 seconds. After 9.1 seconds it reaches a speed of 124 mph; the 186 mph barrier shatters after 21.9 seconds. Top speed is in excess of 211 mph.

The body of the Ferrari SA APERTA is refined by NOVITEC ROSSO in a few details. Supplemental GTO-style front spoiler lip, side skirts and rear fascia that match the look of the front fascia of the special model are installed on the car. All clear-coated carbon-fiber components come with a matte finish for a true racing look. Further understated highlights are added by the NOVITEC ROSSO black lamps that are available for all 599 models. The set includes tail lamps, third brake light, rear fog lamp and side markers.

La Ferrari 599 GTO in pista / The Ferrari 599 GTO on the track

simonie — Fri, 07 May 2010 14:09:18 +0000

It goes without saying that when you build one of the world’s fastest and most powerful road cars, there’s a certain amount of bragging rights that comes along with it. That’s exactly the case Ferrari has built for itself when it introduced the world to the Ferrari 599 GTO. It only seems fitting then that the boys from Ferrari took their latest pride and joy out for a nice test run around their own circuit in Mugello. Driven by the venerable Dario Benuzzi, Ferrari’s long-standing roadcar test driver, the 599 GTO was officially unleashed at the Mugello track and in true Ferrari fashion, they recorded the whole shebang for the rest of the world to watch and drool over. It doesn’t take a whole lot for the rest of the planet’s population to fawn over a Ferrari, but when we’re talking about the most powerful car ever to come out of Maranello, it doesn’t take a whole lot of exaggeration to say that a lot of people will need to wipe off the drool on their faces after watching this video.

Acer in pole position with Ferrari smartphone

simonie — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 22:00:50 +0000

The manufacturer Acer has benefited from the MWC to announce the arrival of a smartphone in the colors of the Scuderia Ferrari. It will run under Android 2.1 (Lightning) and will be unveiled next month.

It was during the MWC than a manufacturer Acer, which already collaborates with Ferrari on laptops and netbooks with the colors of the Scuderia, has announced it will present next month its first smartphone scratched Ferrari. It is also an opportunity for Acer to confirm its continued partnership with the Italian car manufacturer for the next three years (2010-2012).
Unfortunately we have no information on the characteristics of this new terminal. We just know that the Acer Ferrari smartphone will have a sophisticated design, performance and sensational turn it in the Android OS 2.1 (Lightning). Both brands are thereby seeking pole position in the smartphone segment.

Video: Ferrari Enzo takes on LMC Super Cuda

simonie — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 20:54:18 +0000

Its the ultimate battle between an Italian thoroughbred and an American powerhouse.
On one corner, you have the Ferrari Enzo and on the other corner is the LMC Super Cuda. There are no lightweights here gentlemen.
Ok, it wasn’t so much a race between the two as it was a demonstration as to just how fast and powerful these two bad boys are. In the quick instance where they did put the pedal to the metal, the Super Cuda easily pulled away from the Enzo before a technical malfunction which came as a result of going too fast – forced the Super Cuda to a grounding halt.

As soon as it was fixed, the two then decided to see which car could post the higher topspeed and this time, the Enzo outgunned the the Super Cuda 218 to 208 mph.

1964 – 1966 Ferrari 275 GTS

simonie — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 20:36:19 +0000

The 275 GTS was built on the same 2400mm wheelbase chassis as the 275 GTB and was powered by the latest 3.3 Liter version of Ferrari’s proven Colombo designed V12 engine. Redlining at 7,000 RPM and developing 260 HP, the spider sprinted from 0 to 60 MPH in under 7 seconds and reached a top speed of around 146 MPH.

The spider and the coupe shared the same drive train setup as the berlinetta, a five speed transaxle and four wheel independent suspension, although the rigid torque tube was never fitted.

The production cycle of the brilliant 275 GTS was rather brief, however, and continued only until early 1966, when it was replaced by the 330 GTS. Just 200 examples of the 275 GTS were produced, most of them for right here in the American market.

Video: Ferrari California does too much showboating in Bulgaria, ends up crashing into a bulldozer

simonie — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:53:55 +0000

We’ve all had our fair share of exotic crashes over the years and despite the stomach-churning sight of seeing these prized beauties burn, get mowed down, or get smashed into smithereens, we still can’t get enough.

Days after a Bugatti Veyron dove into a lake in Texas, we now go to Sofia, Bulgaria for an up-close look at a Ferrari California getting whacked not just by an oncoming car, but to make things worse, a bulldozer too.

In the video, two Ferrari Californias are whooping it up in the streets of Sofia, power sliding and showing off their muscles to anyone willing to take a glance. But after too much showboating, one of the cars overdoes his drift and catches an oncoming car side-on. The California bounces off the car and hits a bulldozer seconds later.

Needless to say, the lesson is very important in this crash. If you’re going to show-off your wheels, it’s always a good idea to still bear some semblance of caution. Otherwise, this is how your showboating is going to end up.

Video: Ferrari 458 Italia test drive

simonie — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 20:21:49 +0000

The guys from AutoCar had the luck to got behind the wheels of the new Ferrari 458 Italia

and of course they had all the fun in the world. Check the video to see what do they think about the latest Ferrari.

Short reminder: the 458 Italia is powered by a 4.5 Liter V8 engine that delivers 570 HP at 9000 RPM. Weighing in at only 3042 pounds, the new Ferrari will rocket from 0 to 60 MPH in just 3.4 seconds and won’t stop until it hits a top speed of 202 MPH.

2009 Ferrari 599 China Limited Edition with Handling GTE package

simonie — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 10:47:13 +0000

There are several unique elements that have been exclusively developed by the artist Lu Hao and that blend Chinese traditional elements with the unique passion for special cars of Ferrari.

The Engine Start button used in the China Limited Edition model is made using jade from a renowned Italian jeweler and inscribed with the Chinese characters for “Engine Start” in Xiao Zhuan script. The design softens western speed and energy with the charm of jade, and represents the finishing touch to the artist’s vision. Jade is formed over the course of thousands of years under the influence of mountains and rivers, sun and moon. Ferrari vehicles are created using a similarly painstaking process beginning with a meticulous design and refinement. Cutting edge technology is then used to create exclusive and peerless works of automotive craftsmanship.

The numbers one to ten on the car’s rev counter have been written in Xiao Zhuan Script, which was China’s first standardized script. By making use of Xiao Zhuan Script in the China Limited Edition Model, Ferrari is providing a link to China’s glorious ancient culture. It is a unique and ingenious use of China’s written heritage.

An elegant plaque with the characters for “China” adorns the car’s exterior, commemorating Ferrari’s first limited edition vehicle for China and reflecting Ferrari’s admiration for Chinese culture.

The vehicle includes specially-made, dedicated luggage for the trunk inscribed with the route of the Silk Road, which once ran from western China to Venice, Italy, and is the road that brought Marco Polo to China. The spirit of the Silk Road is embodied in Italian craftsmanship of this car.
Finally, as a unique status symbol, each car will bear a dedicated owner’s plate also engraved in Xiao Zhuan script.

About 599 China Limited Edition with Handling GTE package

The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano is the highest performance V12 berlinetta ever produced at Maranello. The new model boasts the most innovative and technologically advanced features ever used by Ferrari in a mid-front engined two-seater, setting a whole standard in terms of sportiness, design and driving pleasure. It boasts the best weight-to-power ratio of its category, ideal weight distribution, exceptional aerodynamic efficiency, innovated design on car appearance, even the adjusted engine sound ensures 599 GTB Fiorano to be the representative of front-engined two seated car. The HGTE Package ensures tighter and more dynamic handling, with sharper cornering and improved responsiveness whilst still being easy to drive. It retains all of the trademarks of an exclusive luxury car whilst exceeding the performance of one of Ferrari’s own iconic supercars, the F40. This pinnacle of engineering achievement delivers the kind of performance that beats a host of long standing records.

the V12 engine: 5,999 cm3 displacement; a specific power output of 103 CV/litre; maximum torque of 608 Nm at 5,600 rpm, maximum power of 620 CV at 7,600 rpm; maximum speed of over 330km/h, 1-100km/h acceleration time of 3.7 seconds.
F1-Super gearbox: the new generation F1 gearbox cuts overall gear-shift times to 100 ms by implementing contemporaneously the various stages involved in changing gears.
F1 Trac system: the experience built up over Formula 1 testing and races by Ferrari and integrates road-holding, safety and stability of this car, optimizing traction.
Enhanced manettino: developed from F1 technology; the driver can instantly intervene on the car’s dynamic behaviour.
The HGTE package includes a modified set-up with stiffer springs and rear anti-roll bar as well as new calibration settings for the magnetorheological shock absorbers when the manettino is at its sportier settings. The ride height has also been lowered which in turn lowers the car’s centre of gravity. This combined with the new set-up helps improve body control. The package also includes specifically optimised tyres featuring a compound that offers even better grip.
Optimized Aerodynamics: lengthy testing in the wind tunnel at Ferrari has yielded excellent results in terms of both downforce and drag.

2010 Ferrari 458 Italia

simonie — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 10:41:35 +0000

While it’s true that every Ferrari is innovative by definition, it’s equally true that in the course of the Prancing Horse’s history, certain cars have marked a genuine departure from the current range. This is very much the case with the Ferrari 458 Italia, which is a massive leap forward from the company’s previous mid-rear engined sports cars.

The new model is a synthesis of style, creative flair, passion and cutting-edge technology, characteristics for which Italy as a nation is well-known. For this reason Ferrari chose to add the name of its homeland to the traditional figure representing the displacement and number of cylinders.

The Ferrari 458 Italia is a completely new car from every point of view: engine, design, aerodynamics, handling, instrumentation and ergonomics, just to name a few.

A two-seater berlinetta, the Ferrari 458 Italia, as is now traditional for all Ferrari’s road-going cars, benefits hugely from the company’s Formula 1 experience. This is particularly evident in the speed and precision with which the car responds to driver inputs and in the attention focused on reducing internal friction in the engine for lower fuel consumption than the F430, despite the fact that both overall displacement and power have increased. However, Ferrari’s track experience makes its presence felt in the 458 Italia not only in terms of pure technological transfer but also on a more emotional level, because of the strong emphasis on creating an almost symbiotic relationship between driver and car. The 458 Italia features an innovative driving environment with a new kind of steering wheel and dashboard that is the direct result of racing practice. Once again input from Michael Schumacher – who was involved from the very start of the 458 Italia project – played an invaluable part.

The Ferrari 458 Italia’s Pininfarina design provides further evidence of the complete departure from the past that this new car hails. The Ferrari 458 Italia has a compact, aerodynamic shape, underscoring the concepts of simplicity, efficiency and lightness that inspired the project. As with every Ferrari, the car’s styling has been very heavily influenced by the requirements for aerodynamic efficiency, as can be seen from the downforce of 140 kg at 200km/h generated by the new model. The front features a single opening for the front grille and side air intakes, with aerodynamic sections and profiles designed to direct air to the coolant radiators and the new flat underbody. The nose also sports small aeroelastic winglets which generate downforce and, as speed rises, deform to reduce the section of the radiator inlets and cut drag.

The new 4499 cc V8 is the first Ferrari direct injection engine to be mid-rear mounted. It has a very low piston compression height typical of racing engines which contributed to achieving its compression ratio of 12.5:1. Equipped with the traditional flat-plane crankshaft, the engine delivers 570 CV at 9000 rpm and, with an outstanding power output of 127 CV/litre, sets a new benchmark not only for the whole Ferrari range and the history of company, but also for the entire market segment. Maximum torque is 540 Nm at 6000 rpm, over 80 per cent of which is available from 3250 rpm. Specific torque is a record 120 Nm/litre. However, what is truly extraordinary is the amount of torque available while still maintaining high levels of power at low revs.

The car’s soundtrack is also typical Ferrari, with an exciting, powerful growl emerging from the engine before it channels through to the exhaust’s three rear tailpipes.

The 458 Italia is equipped with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission which increases performance whilst providing very smooth shifts even at full throttle. The engineers have developed specific, sportier gear ratios to match the power and torque curves of the new V8, guaranteeing high torque even at lower engine speeds and allowing the car to reach its maximum speed in top gear.

This new Ferrari is also a major leap forward when it comes to cutting emissions. Despite the fact that the new engine is significantly more powerful than the V8s that preceded it, the Ferrari 458 Italia produces just 320 g/km of CO2 and fuel consumption is 13.7 l/100 km (combined cycle), the best in the entire segment.

The engineers also focused on weight reduction during the design phase for similar reasons. Consequently, the Ferrari 458 Italia has a dry weight of 1380 kg with a power-to-weight ratio of 2.42 kg/CV. Weight distribution is also optimal with 58 per cent over the rear axle. The result of the engineers’ endeavours can be summed up in to two simple statistics which together perfectly encapsulate the Ferrari 458 Italia’s exceptional performance: 0-100 km/h acceleration in under 3.4 seconds and a maximum speed in excess of 325 km/h.

For the new chassis, once more in aluminium, Maranello’s engineers incorporated various types of advanced alloys along with aerospace industry-derived manufacturing and bonding techniques.

With regard to vehicle dynamics, the Ferrari 458 Italia’s suspension features twin wishbones at the front and a multi-link set-up at the rear tuned for maximum roadholding and superlative handling. Along with a more direct steering ratio, the 458 Italia thus offers extremely rapid turn-in and body control whilst maintaining superior ride comfort.

The integration of the E-Diff and F1-Trac (now controlled by the same ECU) and their respective mappings is even greater, resulting in a 32 per cent increase in longitudinal acceleration out of corners compared to previous models. The evolution of the control logic, with even faster and more accurate calculation of levels of grip, ensures even greater roadholding, better handling and ease of control on the limit.

The same ECU also governs the high-performance ABS, providing even more precise control over the logic threshold and greater efficiency. The brakes also feature a prefill function whereby the pistons in the callipers move the pads into contact with the discs on lift off to minimise delay in the brakes being applied. This combined with the ABS has cut the 100-0 km/h braking distance to a mere 32.5 metres.

The Ferrari 458 Italia’s interior is another area of the car that exalts its sporty personality. The driver is welcomed by a new layout and a revolutionary ergonomic interface where the main controls are all clustered on the steering wheel.

With the Ferrari 458 Italia, Maranello has brought a highly distinctive new car to its 8-cylinder range. The company now offers two models that share a common, race-derived DNA, both exceptionally sporty and fun to drive in true Ferrari tradition, but aimed at two very different kinds of client. While the Ferrari California was created for owners requiring a more versatile sports car with a practical edge, the 458 Italia is designed for owners for whom the priority is uncompromising on-road performance with occasional track day capability, but who still demand a car that is useable in day-to-day driving like all Ferrari’s recent models.

Ferrari 458 Italia – Technical specifications

Dimensions

Length 4527 mm (178.2 in.)
Width 1937 mm (76.3 in.)
Height 1213 mm (47.8 in.)
Wheelbase 2650 mm (104.3 in.)
Dry weight 1380 kg (3042 lbs)*
Weight/power ratio 2,42 kg/CV (7.16 lbs/kW)
Weight distribution fr/r 42%/58%

Engine

Type V8 – 90°
Displacement 4499 cc (274.5 cu in.)
Maximum power 570 CV (425 kW)** @ 9000 rpm
Maximum torque 540 Nm (398 lbs/ft) @ 6000 rpm
Specific power output 127 CV/l
Compression ratio 12.5:1

Tyres

Front 235/35 ZR20 8.5”
Rear 295/35 ZR20 10.5”

Performance

Maximum speed >325 km/h (>202 mph)
0-100 km/h
Fuel consumption + emissions
Fuel consumption*** 13.7 l/100 km
Emissions*** 320 g CO2/km

Dual-clutch, 7-speed F1

Electronics

E-Diff3, F1-Trac, high-performance ABS

PRESS RELEASE

More news on the Ferrari 458 Italia on www.ferrari.com: new photos and interview now on the site in the run-up to the Frankfurt Show

Maranello, 27 August 2009 – In the run-up to the official unveiling of the Ferrari 458 Italia at the Frankfurt Motor Show on the 15th of September, enthusiasts can find out more about the car on www.ferrari.com. There they will find the first photographs of the 458 Italia’s interior and of the steering wheel and instrument binnacle which represent a significant step forward in the concept of the ergonomic interface between driver and car.

In fact the main commands are now grouped on the steering wheel, the secondary commands are handily set in two satellite pods either side of the dash and there are now comprehensive instrument displays on the panel ahead of the driver. These solutions represent an important safety aspect, enabling the driver to concentrate fully on driving. Similarly this layout ensures maximum control of the car in highperformance driving, an uncompromising approach that derives directly from Ferrari’s F1 experience.

Working closely with the Ferrari Styling Centre, the engineers have thus reinterpreted the positioning of the major commands to provide a truly driver-oriented cockpit. All steering-column mounted stalks have been eliminated, with the indicators, full beam, flash and windscreen wiper functions now being activated by buttons on the steering wheel boss. The button to select the shock absorber setting is now positioned next to the ’Engine start’ button where it falls readily to hand. Behind the wheel are a number of secondary functions, such as the stereo, while the gearbox paddles are now longer making shifts even easier from any steering angle.

The right-hand satellite pod on the dash incorporates controls for the infotainment, the Bluetooth connection, sat-nav, digital speedo and rear parking camera. Clustered on the left-hand satellite pod instead are the optional cruise control, buttons for choosing the video setting of the left-hand dash TFT screen and the on-board computer interface. The latter controls the trip computer, the Vehicle Dynamic Assistance and the display of the car’s set-up.

The Vehicle Dynamic Assistance monitors the operating parameters of the most important areas of the car – engine/gearbox, tyres and brakes. The VDA is enabled in the following manettino settings – Race, CT off and CST off – and provides visual confirmation of the status of each component based on an algorithm from parameters reading lateral and longitudinal acceleration, revs and speed. This enables the driver to assess the ideal operating conditions for the car. There are three status settings: WARM-UP (operating temperature too low), GO (ideal operating conditions) and OVER (one or more components are no longer at their optimum level and need cooling).

Along with the photos now on-line, the Ferrari site also includes an exclusive videointerview with Paolo Pininfarina, Chairman of Pininfarina S.p.A., who provides indepth insight into the 458 Italia’s design philosophy and exterior styling. The next release on www.ferrari.com will include an analysis of the car’s performance characteristics with an interview with seven-times F1 World Champion Michael Schumacher. Gearbox

PRESS RELEASE

ITALIA – Ferrari’s innovative new V8

The 458 Italia is the latest incarnation of the mid-rear engined berlinetta and will be unveiled at the next Frankfurt Motor Show

Maranello, July 28th 2009 – While it’s true that every Ferrari is innovative by definition, it’s equally true that in the course of the Prancing Horse’s history, certain cars have marked a genuine departure from the current range. This is very much the case with the Ferrari 458 Italia, which is a massive leap forward from the company’s previous mid-rear engined sports cars.

The Ferrari 458 Italia is a completely new car from every point of view: engine, design, aerodynamics, handling, instrumentation and ergonomics, just to name a few.

The car’s soundtrack is also typical Ferrari, with an exciting, powerful growl emerging from the engine before it channels through to the exhaust’s three rear tailpipes.

For the new chassis, once more in aluminium, Maranello’s engineers incorporated various types of advanced alloys along with aerospace industry-derived manufacturing and bonding techniques.

With regard to vehicle dynamics, the Ferrari 458 Italia’s suspension features twin wishbones at the front and a multi-link set-up at the rear tuned for maximum roadholding and superlative handling. Along with a more direct steering ratio, the 458 talia thus offers extremely rapid turn-in and body control whilst maintaining superior ride comfort.

2009 Ferrari California

simonie — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 10:34:38 +0000

The first official photographs have been published of the Ferrari California, the latest addition to the new generation of Ferraris launched in 2004 with the 612 Scaglietti and added to more recently with the 430 Scuderia.

The Ferrari California joins the Prancing Horse’s 8-cylinder family which has always been defined by power and performance. It also flanks the flagship 612 Scaglietti in the prestige sporty Grand Tourer segment.

The new Ferrari California will satisfy even the most demanding of owners in term of its superb vehicle dynamics and driving pleasure. The new model will be available exclusively as a convertible with a folding hard top. Both chassis and bodywork are aluminium, in line with the rest of the current range. The California will be powered by a new V8 engine mounted for the first time in the marque’s history in the mid-front position.

In line with Ferrari tradition, the new model also features several innovations. Apart from its folding hard top, these include the original 2+ concept which guarantees exceptional versatility of use in the rear of the car. The California’s 4,300 cc V8 engine features direct fuel injection and a “flat” crankshaft. It generates 460 CV at 7,500 rpm with a torque curve that enhances vehicle dynamics and provides maximum driving pleasure which is typical for Ferrari.

As per the traditional Ferrari transaxle layout, the engine, which allows the Ferrari California to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 4.0 seconds, will be coupled to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission that boosts the car’s performance while enhancing the driving pleasure, improves ride comfort and reduces fuel consumption and emissions (c.310 g/km CO2). The comfort is further enhanced by a new multilink rear suspension system. The Ferrari California is also equipped with the exclusive F1-Trac traction control system which made its debut on the 599 GTB Fiorano and has been further honed to suit the typical driving conditions expected for this new GT. Brembo brakes featuring carbon-ceramic material disks as standard guarantee superbly efficient braking.

In addition to sporting the marque’s classic styling cues, the cabin has also been beautifully trimmed using quality materials by Ferrari’s own skilled artisans. New accessories and equipment, such as the seats, steering wheel, instrument panel and infotainment system, together with optimised aerodynamics ensure that this is a highly ergonomic and enjoyable car to drive regardless of whether the top is up or down.

The Ferrari California is aimed at owners who desire a car which embodies everything the Prancing Horse represents in terms of sporty design and innovation, but also seek a car with greater versatility than ever. The car will be officially unveiled to the public at the Paris International Car Show. However, over the coming weeks, new photographs and further details about it will also be published.

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Styling

The Ferrari California is an exceptionally innovative car whose philosophy takes its inspiration from the spirit and emotions of one of the great Ferraris of the past, the 1957 250 California, a superbly elegant open top car designed for the track, which has, over the years, come to symbolise not only superior sportiness and performance but also exclusivity, craftsmanship and faultless sophistication.

This new car joins Ferrari’s 8-cylinder range which is made up mostly of very high performance models. It also fl anks the 12-cylinder fl agship 612 Scaglietti in the Grand Tourer category. The Ferrari California is a car with the track in its DNA. It is enormously innovative and will more than fulfi l the expectations of even our most discerning clients, offering breathtaking driving pleasure and fun behind the wheel as well as extreme versatility of use and in-car comfort. It is available exclusively as a convertible with retractable folding hard top in either a two-seater version with a traditional rear bench or in the 2+ version which sees the rear bench equipped with seating for one to two passengers.

In line with Ferrari tradition, this model positively brims with innovative features. In addition to its retractable hard top and the aforementioned original 2+ concept, the new Prancing Horse car also offers: a new direct injection V8 engine, a 7-speed gearbox with steering wheel-mounted F1-style paddles coupled with a new dual clutch, a new suspension system (double wishbones at the front and multilink at the rear), the new evolved F1-Trac traction control system and Brembo brakes with CCM (carbon ceramic material) discs as standard (this latter feature is shared by the other models in the current range).

The California’s sleek aerodynamic styling is, like the rest of the current Ferrari models, the result of our longstanding collaboration with Pininfarina and offers a host of signature Ferrari styling cues. Viewed from the side, the aerodynamic sweep of the bonnet beautifully contrasts with the compact tail volume and the pulled-back cabin. The front continues some of the themes hinted at on the fl anks, harmoniously alternating concave and convex volumes. Seen head-on, the car clearly takes it much of its inspiration from the prestigious Prancing Horse car from which it takes its name: the grille and slender air intake at the centre of the bonnet most notably harking back to the 250 GT California. At the rear, the sides and the muscular tail section are both familiar too. As at the front, the single round LED taillights are inset directly along the edge of the boot. The California’s vertically stacked twin tailpipes are an original fl ourish as is the boot which sweeps right down to the bumpers to improve functionality. Of course, the interior also refl ects the same level of design sophistication, exuding a sense of refi ned luxury, comfort and bespoke quality. Situated between the front seats, the new aluminium-trimmed centre console is another distinctive touch that goes beyond the merely aesthetic, beautifully combining functionality and design.

Aerodynamics

The Ferrari California’s aerodynamics were, of course, developed in tandem with its styling. This allowed Ferrari to keep the Cx (drag coeffi cient) right down with respect to the downforce required for optimal vehicle dynamics. In the coupé confi guration, the California has a Cx value of 0.32. A desire to achieve perfect balance between vertical load and drag infl uenced the shape of the rear diffuser and the spoiler incorporated into the front bumper. Drag has been cut to 10% lower than on the other Ferrari models which not only makes the California a more aerodynamically effi cient car but also reduces fuel consumption. Last but not least, the air intake on the bonnet ensures highly effi cient cooling of the engine compartment.

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The new 8-cylinder engine

This is the fi rst V8 in the history of Ferrari road-cars to be mid-front mounted. Built entirely from aluminium, it retains the typical Ferrari architecture with a 90° angle between the two cylinder banks and a 180° angle between the cranks.

The engine has a total displacement of 4,300 cc and a maximum power output of 460 hp/338 kW at 7,750 rpm. With a specifi c power of 107 hp/litre, its maximum torque is 485 Nm (49 kgm) at 5,000 rpm, 75% of which is available at just 2,250 rpm. The Ferrari California takes less than 4 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h and delivers a blistering 310 km/h top speed.

The new V8 features direct fuel injection and variable timing (on both intake and exhaust) to guarantee superb performance, exceptional handling and fuel consumption and emissions that easily comply with the toughest Euro 5 and Lev2 standards. Thanks in part to these solutions, the Ferrari California consumes just 13.1 litres/100 km (ECE combined) and has carbon emissions of 305.6 g\km (ECE combined).

The California’s engine sound was also carefully developed as this is one of the great Ferrari signatures and really does contribute to enhancing driving pleasure. Particular attention was lavished on sound perception in the cabin both with the top up and down to ensure that trademark thrill without compromising on occupant acoustic comfort.

Gearbox and transmission

The Ferrari California sports a new dual clutch gearbox (7-speed + reverse) with the now traditional steering wheel-mounted F1-style paddles. This is an innovative system that guarantees a superb combination of performance and ride comfort. With the dual clutch, one clutch is used for even-numbered gears and the other for odd-numbered ones, and allows the pre-selection of the next gear required.

The gears are changed by overlapping the opening and closing stage of both clutches, resulting in gearshifting times that are close to zero and with no “torque interrupt”. The result is not only enhanced performance but truly thrilling driving pleasure. The traditional transaxle layout (engine to the front and gearbox to the rear) also contributes to the California’s perfect weight distribution (47% front – 53% rear) and to reducing vibration to the bodyshell. In manual mode, the new gearbox guarantees great sporty driving pleasure while extra comfort is assured in automatic.

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Chassis and suspensions

The Ferrari California’s chassis and bodyshell are both made entirely from aluminium. Thanks to the use of different aluminium technologies (extrusions and shell casts), the car’s exceptional versatility, onboard comfort and driveability has not added to chassis weight or to the dimensions of the structural sections – something that simply would not be the case had traditional steel architecture and technologies been used. Furthermore, static rigidity (torsional and fl exional) has been improved with respect to average fi gures for a Spider to ensure exceptional handling in any kind of road conditions and to guarantee GT-standard comfort both with the top up and down.

The Ferrari California retains the traditional double wishbone suspension to the front while a new multilink system has been specially developed for the rear. The multilink system improves longitudinal fl exibility of the suspension, keeping transverse rigidity values high. What this means in practice is that the car beautifully absorbs any unevenness, and noise and vibration are effi ciently damped for exceptional ride comfort well on a par with the car’s nimble handling. The SCM Magnetorheological Suspension Control System, debuted on the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, is also available on request.

Retractable Hard Top

Of course the Ferrari California’s signature feature has to be its retractable hard top (RHT). It is made from aluminium panels and has a cast aluminium weight-bearing structure which has reduced its overall weight and the moving masses involved. The entire opening/closing cycle is completed in just 14 seconds and thanks to the original stowage system, the California’s boot space remains extremely generous regardless of whether it is up or down.

The GT Manettino and F1-Trac

The manettino has now become one of the classic features of our entire range as has its position on the steering wheel which is clearly derived from our Formula 1 experience. The manettino integrates the gearbox, stability and traction control systems (CST and F1-Trac) and the SCM suspension system.

The settings are as follows:

COMFORT: maximum safety in all conditions, particularly ideal for low grip situations (wet or slippery road surface). Best everyday driving setting.

SPORT: maximum performance and stability in perfect grip situations. Recommended for sporty, high performance driving.

CST-OFF: this setting gives the driver complete freedom and control of the car. There is no electronic intervention whatsoever apart from ABS.

The Ferrari California also sports the F1-Trac traction control system which can very accurately read grip, assuring the very best can be made of the car’s potential at any time.

The F1-Trac system guarantees:

Maximum grip coming out of corners
Stability in all driving conditions
Superb driveability and handling in extreme situations
Consistent performance
Exceptional ride comfort.

In fact, the F1-Trac offers a 20% improvement in acceleration coming out of corners with respect to a traditional traction and control systems.

—-

Safety equipment

The Ferrari California boasts an ejectable roll-bar to ensure that its occupants are protected should the car overturn. The system is installed behind the backrests of the rear seats and is hidden by the trim of the same. Ejection time is under 190ms. The onboard safety equipment is completed by front retractable airbags (driver and passenger sides), side retractable air bags in door panels, bi-xenon headlights and LED rear lights. New generation adaptive headlights, known as AFS (Advanced Frontlighting System), are also available on request, and offer improved visibility on the road. The headlamp beam angles are automatically adjusted in line with steering, angle, speed and lateral acceleration, offering a wider area of illumination when cornering.

Interior and standard equipment

Particular attention has been lavished on the design and in-car comfort standard of the California’s cabin. The new Ferrari is available in a choice of two confi gurations:

1. Two-seater plus rear bench equipped to take two roller suitcases or two golf bags.

2. 2+ confi guration that sees the rear bench sporting two seats, Isofi x attachment points, and two seat belts.

In both version, the rear backrest folds down to allow the stowage of longer items such as golf bags or skis. The boot capacity is also impressively generous: 340 litres with the top up and 240 with the top down.

A new electrically adjustable, magnesium-framed seat was also designed for the California. Another new feature is the instrument panel with analogue instruments (tachometer and rev counter) and four-screen TFT Multidisplay. The Ferrari California also boasts a new infotainment system with 6.5’’ touchscreen, Sat Nav, USB connection, Bluetooth, hard disc, voice commands and IPOD connector.

Carrozzeria Scaglietti Personalisation Programme

The Carrozzeria Scaglietti Programme allows all Ferrari clients to personalise their car to suit their own tastes and requirements. There are four main areas covered by the Programme: Racing and Track, Exteriors and Colours, Interior and Materials, Equipment and Travel. The Ferrari California comes with diamond-fi nish 19″ 5-spoke aluminium alloy wheels as standard. However, a further set of diamond-fi nish 20″ forged 5-spoke alloy wheel that are 11 kg lighter than those offered as standard can also be ordered. The aforementioned diamond-fi nish gives the wheels an extra-high polish look.

The California is available in a choice of 16 different pastel and metallic colours. However clients also have the option of ordering the new Azzurro California shade created especially for the car’s launch.

In addition to the usual range of 12 leather colours available to choose from for the interior trim too, we’ve just added two new colours: Cioccolato and Iroko. A new racing seat with all-carbon-fi bre frame and electrically adjustable backrest is also now available.

In addition to the already impressive list of features offered as standard with the new California, owners can also choose to have a rear parking camera fi tted or order the luggage set designed specifi cally to make the very most of the rear bench space, an option available in addition to the traditional three-piece leather set coloured to match the interior trim, of course.

Samples of the various materials and virtual confi guration tools will also be available to clients at every Ferrari showroom to help them make their choices too. They may also request outof- range colours and content to really ensure their Ferrari California is absolutely unique.

—-

Technical specifications

DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS

Length 4563 mm
Width 1902 mm
Height 1308 mm
Wheelbase 2670 mm
Front track 1630 mm
Rear track 1605 mm
Dry weight 1630 kg
Kerb weight 1735 kg
Weight distribution 47% Front – 53% Rear
Fuel tank capacity 78 l
Boot capacity 340 l
240 (with roof retracted)

TYRES

Front 245/40 ZR19″
Rear 285/40 ZR19″
Front (optional) 245/35 ZR20″
Rear (optional) 285/35 ZR20″”
CARBON-CERAMIC BRAKES
Front 390 x 34 mm
Rear 360 x 32 mm

ELECTRONIC CONTROL SYSTEMS

CST with F1-TRAC Stability and Traction Control System
TPTMS Tyre Pressure and Temperature
Monitoring System

ENGINE

90° V8 Direct Injection
Bore and stroke 94 x 77.37 cc
Overall displacement 4297 cc
Compression ratio 12.2:1
Maximum power output 338 kW (460 CV) at 7750 rpm
Maximum torque 485 Nm (49 kgm) at 5000 rpm

PERFORMANCE

Maximum speed 310 km/h
0-100 km/h under 4.0 sec
0-400 m 12.2 sec
0-1.000 m 22.1 sec

GEARBOX

F1, dual-clutch, 7-speed plus reverse
Manual 6-speed + REV

SUSPENSION

Front: Double wishbone
Rear: Multilink

FUEL CONSUMPTION

ECE Combined* 13.1 l/100 km

CO2 EMISSIONS

ECE Combined* 305.6 g/km

2009 Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano Handling GTE

simonie — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 10:23:56 +0000

The 79th Geneva International Motor Show provides the venue for Ferrari to announce two new pieces of good news: the arrival of the Handling GT Evoluzione (HGTE) package for the 599 GTB Fiorano and the world debut of the 599XX which is aimed at a select group of clients. The latter new car incorporates the most advanced technologies resulting from Ferrari’s road-going and F1 research. Many of the technological solutions it carries are being used for the first time and have been developed exclusively for this special car.

The HGTE package is designed to deliver even sportier, more dynamic driving, to highlight the 599 GTB Fiorano’s positioning in the “sports car” segment. The technical modifications introduced with the HGTE Package to the car’s set-up and tyres ensure tighter, more dynamic handling, with sharper cornering and improved responsiveness whilst still being easy to drive. The HGTE package further underlines the 599 GTB Fiorano’s different mission from Ferrari’s other current 12-cylinder, the 612 Scaglietti which, along with the 8-cylinder Ferrari California, represents the Grand Tourer personality of the Prancing Horse’s current range.

599 GTB Fiorano with the Handling GTE package

When it first debuted, the 599 GTB Fiorano set a new standard in terms of performance that remains a benchmark for new sports car development to this day. Now Ferrari is introducing the new Handling GTE (Handling Gran Turismo Evoluzione) package for the model to further underscore its sportiness and handling.

The package includes a modified set-up with stiffer springs and rear anti-roll bar as well as new calibration settings for the magnetorheological shock absorbers when the manettino is at its sportier settings. The ride height has also been lowered which in turn lowers the car’s centre of gravity. This combined with the new set-up helps improve body control. The package also includes specifically optimised tyres featuring a compound that offers even better grip.

The car’s electronics have also evolved to ensure even more prompt response to driver commands. The F1 gearbox’s shifts are now even faster in high-performance settings, while a new engine software strategy has improved accelerator response.

The exhaust silencer has also been modified with the result producing an even more marked and thrilling sound under hard usage whilst still delivering just the right comfort levels at cruising speed.

From a styling point of view, the package also includes some distinctively sporty exterior and interior features with carbon-fibre widely used in the latter. The 20″ split-rim wheels are new with a special diamond-cut and matte silver finish. The rear diffuser is finished in matte black to underscore the car’s new set-up and highlight the chromed tail pipes. The cabin is sportier too thanks to a sophisticated mix of full-grain leather, black Alcantara® and carbon-fibre trim.

The new seats are trimmed in a new two-tone combination of leather with black Alcantara® inserts, and the seat backs are trimmed entirely in carbon-fibre. Embroidered in contrasting stitching on the headrest are a Prancing Horse and the words “Handling GTE”.

2009 Ferrari 599XX

simonie — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 10:17:42 +0000

The 599XX is aimed at owners that want to experience Prancing Horse driving pleasure at its purest – in fact, Ferrari will be organising a programme of dedicated track events for it in 2010/2011. Conceived exclusively for track but not official competition use, and thus unrestricted either by homologation limitations or regulatory restrictions, this extreme sports car incorporates the very best of Ferrari technology, the fruit both of our Research and Development Department’s labours and our long experience and experimentation in F1. The plethora of aerodynamic, electronic control and handling innovations used together for the first time on a single car make this model a genuine technological laboratory. The solutions adopted for the 599XX – many of which will remain exclusive to it – enhance its levels of performance and can be summed up in one highly relevant statistic: a Fiorano lap time of just 1 minute and 17 seconds. Although it is such an extreme car, the 599XX still retains the ergonomics of the road-going model which are essential for non-professional drivers engaging in intensive track driving.

599XX

While based on the 599 GTB Fiorano with the same transaxle layout and engine type, this prototype is an extreme track car. Ferrari’s engineers have carried out extensive work on the engine’s combustion chambers and inlet and exhaust tracts. These modifications, combined with the fact that internal attrition has been reduced and the maximum revs have been boosted to 9,000 rpm, helped achieve the target power output of 700 hp at 9,000 rpm. Particular attention was also paid to cutting the weight of the engine unit components. This was achieved both by optimising forms – as in the new crankshaft – and adopting exclusive materials, as in the carbon-fibre used for the intake plenums. A new gearbox shift strategy cuts overall gearchange times to 60 ms.

The 599XX is characterised by an innovative electronic concept called the “High Performance Dynamic Concept” which has been designed to get the maximum performance from the car by managing the combination of the car’s mechanical limits with the potential of its electronic controls. The mechanical and electronic systems work together to get the maximum performance from the car under extreme high performance driving, for consistent lap times. The sporty handling has been improved thanks to the adoption of second generation SCM suspension system. Track usage is also made easier thanks to the new “virtual car engineer”, a screen in the car that provides a real-time indication of the vehicle’s efficiency.

The 599XX’s aerodynamics were honed in numerous wind tunnel test sessions with the result that the car now boasts 280 kg of downforce at 200 km/h (630 kg at 300 km/h). The front underside of the body is completely faired-in and the vents that channel hot air from the engine bay have been moved to the bonnet.

The “Actiflow” system increases downforce and/or cuts drag depending on the car’s trim cornering conditions, courtesy of the use of a porous material in the diffuser and two fans in the boot which channel the air flow from under the car out through two grilles next to the tail-lights. Winglets have been added to the rear buttresses to increase downforce. while synthetic jets have also been incorporated into the rear of the car to control and smooth the air flow and to reduce drag.
Ferrari’s engineers have also used F1-derived “doughnuts” which partly cover the brake discs and wheel rim. These have the dual function of improving both aerodynamics and brake cooling.

In terms of the bodywork, composites and carbon-fibre have been widely used and the engineers drew on their experience in working with aluminium to reach the weight target. The development of increasingly high-performance materials has also benefited the carbon-ceramic material braking system. The brake pads are now made from carbon-fibre which means that the calipers are smaller whilst guaranteeing the same efficiency. The new racing carbon ceramic braking system also delivers shorter braking distances and is generally more efficient due to the weight saving.

The 599XX comes with slick tyres (29/67 R19 Front and 31/71 R19 Rear) specifically developed to maximise stability in cornering and increase lateral acceleration. They are fitted to 19 x 11J wheel rims at the front and 19 x 12J at the rear.

2009 Ferrari 599XX and 599 GTB Fiorano with HGTE Package

simonie — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 10:05:25 +0000

The 79th Geneva International Motor Show provides the venue for Ferrari to announce two new pieces of good news: the arrival of the sporty, dynamic Handling GT Evoluzione (HGTE) Package for the 599 GTB Fiorano and the world debut of the 599XX which is a technological laboratory aimed at a select group of clients. The latter new car incorporates the most advanced technologies resulting from Ferrari’s road-going and F1 research. Many of the technological solutions it carries are being used for the first time and have been developed exclusively for this special car.

The two new arrivals will be introduced to the international media by Ferrari Chairman Luca di Montezemolo on the opening day of the Show, March 3rd, at 10 am.

In addition to the 599 GTB Fiorano equipped with the Handling GTE package and finished in a new three-layer metallic Rosso, and the 599XX in a colour matching the F2008, Ferrari clients and enthusiasts will also be able to admire this single-seater that recently won the Prancing Horse its 16th Constructors’ World title. On the stand there will also be the full range of Ferrari road cars: the Scuderia Spider 16M in a Grigio Titanio livery, the 430 Scuderia in Rosso Corsa and two Grand Tourer models, the Ferrari California in Nero Metallizzato with a Sabbia interior and the flagship 612 Scaglietti. The latter will be displayed in the Atelier, a dedicated area where owners can get a taste of the virtually endless personalisation options on offer to them.

2009 Ferrari F60

simonie — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 09:51:56 +0000

The F60 is the fifty fifth single-seater built by Ferrari specifically to compete in the Formula 1 World Championship. The name of the car was chosen to celebrate the Scuderia’s participation in all 60 editions of the Formula 1 World Championship since 1950 to date.

The project, which goes by the internal code name of 660, represents the Scuderia’s interpretation of the regulations that come into force this year, which include very many new elements. As far as the aerodynamics are concerned, these modifications are the result of the work carried out by the OWG (Overtaking Working Group,) set up by the FIA in collaboration with the teams to produce a set of rules aimed at encouraging more overtaking on track: the front wing, which has a neutral central profile, common to all, is developed mainly on its side elements and is much wider than in the past: the bodywork can no longer carry the slotted apertures that had characterised the Ferrari cars over the past few years.

Other aerodynamic devices are also significantly reduced; the rear wing is higher and narrower than in the past; the diffuser has been moved rearward. The combination of changes naturally led the initial design phase down radically different routes when it came to the side pods and protection components: the apertures have been reduced in size and moved rearward, while the upper and rear elements are larger to aid the exit of air.

The new rules regarding aerodynamics have also led to modifications to the suspension, as these elements can no longer be enclosed to the same extent. The suspension system and the whole layout of the car have been redesigned in the light of the new rules in order to achieve the correct weight distribution.

The design also takes into account two other significant changes in the 2009 regulations: the possibility of using a kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) and the reintroduction of “slick” tyres. The KERS on the F60 was designed by Ferrari in collaboration with Magneti Marelli and is centrally mounted on the engine under the rear part of the chassis; its management has involved all departments of the Gestione Sportiva. The return to tyres with no grooves is another element which is down to the work of the OWG, as is the introduction of a flap on the front wing that can be adjusted by the driver when the car is moving.

The software for managing this tool, as well as for the KERS, was designed in Maranello. The transmission has been redesigned to optimise the aerodynamic efficiency of the car. The gearbox casing is again made in carbon and is still positioned longitudinally. The gearbox is fitted with a speed shifter. There is also a new braking system, with callipers designed by Brembo. Other important rule changes for this year stem from the work of FIA and FOTA (Formula One Teams Association) aimed at producing a significant reduction in the teams’ operational costs.
As far as the engine is concerned, which retains its longitudinal mounting in the F60 and continues as a load bearing structure, the rules now state that a total of eight engines may be used over the 17 Grand Prix race weekends on the calendar.

Accordingly, the maximum permitted engine speed has been reduced to 18,000 rpm and the distance target for each unit is now around 2,500 kilometres. Furthermore, modifications have been made to the inlet trumpets, the position of the injectors and the configuration of the exhausts. The changes to the regulations mean that, on the reliability front, Shell has played a fundamental role in defining the lubricants for both the engine and gearbox.

As usual, the technical partners have played an important part right from the design and development stage of the entire car. Apart from the aforementioned Shell, a significant contribution has been made by the FIAT Research Centre, especially in the use of its simulation systems and by Brembo, in the development of the braking system. As usual, great attention has been paid to the management and optimisation of the materials used, at the design stage and through quality control, aimed at maximising performance while maintaining the highest possible levels of safety.

Technical specifications

Chassis

Carbon-fibre and honeycomb composite structure
Ferrari longitudinal garbo Limited-slip differential
Semiautomatic sequential electronically controlled garbo – quick shift
Number of gears 7 + Reverse
Brembo ventilated carbon-fibre disc brakes
Independent suspension, push-rod activated torsion springs front and rear
Weight (with water, lubricant and driver) 605 kg
BBS Wheels (front and rear) 13″
Kinetic energy recovery system by Ferrari in cooperation with Magneti Marelli

Engine

Type 056
Number of cylinders 8
Cilinder block in cast aluminium V 90°
Number of valves 32
Pneumatic distribution
Total displacement 2398 cm3
Piston bore 98 mm
Weight > 95 kg
Magneti Marelli digital electronic injection
Magneti Marelli static electronic ignition
Fuel Shell V-Power ULG-66L/2
Lubricant Shell

2009 Ferrari Scuderia Spider 16M

simonie — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 22:18:15 +0000

Ferrari has chosen to unveil the new Scuderia Spider 16M at the World Finals in Mugello in celebration of its recent victory in the Formula 1 Constructor’s World Championship 2008. This new high performance sports car features the very best of Ferrari’s latest mid-rear-engined 8-cylinder technology. In fact, the Scuderia Spider 16M is faster round the Fiorano circuit than any other Prancing Horse open-top road car yet built. This truly evocative special series model, of which just 499 unique examples will be produced, is aimed at the most passionate clients, drivers who demand both exclusivity and superb driving pleasure.

The Scuderia Spider 16M is available in a choice of two new signature colour schemes: the standard version is black with grey trim, while a tricolour livery is also available as part of the Carrozzeria Scaglietti Personalisation Programme. The new car also sports a special plaque on its rear grille commemorating Ferrari’s 16th Constructor’s World title. The exclusivity of the interior is underscored by the silver “limited series” plaque just above the air vents at the centre of the dashboard. Other exclusive features include a roll-bar with carbon-fibre outer shell and a specific new generation audio system that can be combined with the removable customised Ferrari iPod Touch 16 GB with central dock just in front of the dashboard.

From a technical point of view, this car has a dry weight of 1340 Kg (80 kg lighter than the F430 Spider). This, combined with the 510 hp provided by its V8 engine and a power-to-weight ratio of 2.6 kg/hp, means that it delivers blistering 0-100 kph acceleration in just 3.7 seconds and a superb top speed of 315 kph.

A new section dedicated to the Scuderia Spider 16M, complete of technical specifications and images is available online at www.ferrariworld.com.

SCUDERIA SPIDER 16M – TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Engine
Naturally aspirated mid-rear 90° V8, 4308 cc
Maximum power output 375.4 kW (510 hp) at 8500 rpm
Maximum torque 470 Nm (47.7 Kgm) at 5250 rpm
Max engine speed 8640 rpm (at limiter)
Compression ratio 11.9:1
Bore and Stroke 92 mm X 81 mm
Specific power output 118.4 hp/litre

Transmission
Six-speed plus Reverse F1 gearbox
Dry dual clutch
Electronic differential E-diff + F1-Trac
Oil gearbox lubrication with oil/water heat exchanger

Performance, fuel consumption, emissions
Acceleration 0-100 km/h 3.7 s
Maximum speed 315 kph
Drive weight/power 2.6 kg/hp
Fuel consumption 15.7 l/100 km (combined ECE)
CO2 emissions 360 g/km (combined ECE)

Chassis and bodywork
Car dimensions:

Length 4512 mm

Width 1923 mm

Height 1216 mm

Wheelbase 2600 mm

Front track 1669 mm

Rear track 1616 mm
Dry weight * 1340 kg (-80 kg vs F430 Spider)
Kerb weight * 1440 kg
Weight distribution 43% front, 57% rear
Fuel tank capacity 95 litres
Independent front and rear forged aluminium double wishbone suspensions, titanium helical springs, hollow anti-roll bars and lighter electronic shocks
398mm X 36mm carbon-ceramic material front brake discs with aluminium 6-pot callipers
350mm X 34mm carbon-ceramic material rear disc brakes with aluminium 6-pot callipers
19″ five-spoke split rims front and rear
Tyres: 235/35 front and 285/35 rear; Fabbrica Pirelli PZero Corsa only

Electronic control systems
CST Stability and Traction Control System. Steering wheel-mounted manettino with five settings to integrate the F1 gearbox, CST and F1-Trac (Stability and Traction Control System), suspension control. *Figures refer to the European market versions

Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano One To One

simonie — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 22:13:31 +0000

Back in January Ferrari unveiled the 612 Scaglietti One to One at the Geneva Motor Show. This new personalization program allows every client to fully personalize the car. The program has now also been extended to the 599 GTB.

So, after making a short visit to a dedicated Atelier in Maranelloyou will be able to create your own truly bespoke car. The company will offer a vast range of special content to choose from, including specially trained consultants.

The official debut will be made at the Paris Auto Show.

2008 Ferrari F430 GTC Challenge

simonie — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 21:32:19 +0000

The “competition” versions (Challenge and GTC) of the F430 will be competing this coming weekend at the Silverstone circuit in England.

The F430 Challenge cars will be taking part in the second round of this season’s European Ferrari Challenge Pirelli Trophy, while the F430 GTC will be making their debut in the FIA GT Championship, where they will be going for a repeat of the clean sweep they achieved over the past two years, when they took the Drivers, Constructors and Teams titles, thanks to AF Corse.

More than fifty cars will take part in the English leg of the Prancing Horse one-make series, representing no less than twenty three countries. After doing the double in Monza, Austria’s Philipp Baron (Baron Service) comes to Silverstone as favourite, thanks to a 14 point lead over Frenchman Ange Barde in the Pirelli Trophy classification. Heading the Shell Cup is an Italian driver, in the shape of Walter Forer (Rossocorsa/Pellin,) ahead of fellow countryman Gianluca Carboni (Kessel) and Englishman Michael Cantillon (Ferrari GB Dealer Team.)

Ten F430 GTC will line up for the start of the first FIA GT race, split between six teams. Among the drivers, worthy of note the presence of reigning champion, Toni Vilander: the Finn races as part of a pairing with Italy’s Gimmi Bruni, who finished second in 2007. In fact, Bruni, along with Robert Bell, won the first race of the LMS series in a GTC, held at Barcelona back on 6th April. On the same day, Dirk Mueller and Dominik Farnbacher took victory at St. Petersburg (USA) in the second round of the ALMS series.

Clearly, the work of the Corse Clienti department moves on at quite a pace. Apart from the racing activity, there is also the FXX programme and that linked to the historic Formula 1 cars, which got underway last weekend in Shanghai, as part of the second running of the Ferrari Festival, which saw over sixty Cavallino cars take part in an event aimed at owners and fans of the marque, in the Far East. Several FXX cars and three Formula 1 single-seaters were on track, all part of the past fifteen years of Scuderia history: the F310, the model Michael Schumacher took to his first Grand Prix victory for Ferrari back in 1996 and the title winning F2003 -GA and the F2004, which were world champions in 2003 and 2004, as used by Schumacher and Rubens Barrichello.

2008 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti One to One

simonie — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:29:52 +0000

Ferrari is present at the 78th International Geneva Motor Show with its entire GT range, the F2007 single-seater that won last year’s Formula 1 Drivers’ and Constructors’ World Championships, the legendary 365 GTB4 “Daytona” which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, and a special area dedicated to the One-to-One Programme.

Taking pride of place at the Ferrari stand, however, is the 612 Scaglietti, the model being used to inaugurate the new One-to-One Personalisation Programme. Ferrari intends to allow every client to fully personalise this flagship model, courtesy of a wide array of new content as well as the options available through the Carrozzeria Scaglietti Programme. In fact, a special dedicated “atelier” area has been set up at the factory in which clients can put together their own bespoke 612 Scaglietti accessory by accessory, detail by detail. In exactly the same way as they would at an haute couture fashion house, owners can choose details and materials they want for their car in consultation with the Ferrari experts who will actually build it to their exact specifications and tastes.

We have recreated a compact version of the real telier (due to be officially opened in Maranello in the near future) on the stand. Further such ateliers will then be opened over the next few months in other parts of the world.
Clients will be assisted in making their selections by dedicated Programme consultants who can help them at every stage of defining their car’s specification. Naturally, despite the many variations on offer, the Ferrari flagship’s benchmark quality and styling characteristics will remain unchanged and no modifications will be permitted that would impinge on the signature Prancing Horse safety and reliability.

All of these unique new 612 Scagliettis will be built in a dedicated assembly area at the Maranello factory.

To underscore the sheer depth and flexibility of the personalisation options available for the 612 Scaglietti, we are exhibiting at Geneva a version which has been inspired, right down to its perforated leather Daytona seats, by the classic 365 GTB4 which will stand alongside it. The famous 365 GTB4 was, of course, affectionately dubbed the Daytona in honour of the historic one-two-three finish delivered by the Scuderia Ferrari in the eponymous 24 Hour Race in 1967. The arrival of the 365 GTB4 was a significant moment in the company’s history and Ferrari will be celebrating this car’s 40th anniversary in 2008 with a series of events across the globe.

The 612 Scagliettis being used to launch the One-to-One Programme incorporate a series of technical evolutions that reflect the Ferrari philosophy of constantly introducing innovations in each model. Most notably, the V12 flagship now boasts an electrochromic panoramic roof which covers the entire top of the cabin. This has the dual advantage of giving occupants the feeling of driving along in a drop-top whilst enjoying the comfort and safety of a coupé. However, this is no ordinary panoramic roof. It is made from electrochromic glass which can be changed at the touch of a button to adjust the levels of sunlight allowed into the cabin. The electrochromic glass solution was developed in close collaboration with Saint Gobain, a partner with whom Ferrari has most recently developed a similar highly innovative solution for the Superamerica.

In addition to its electrochromic roof, the 612 Scaglietti also sports the aptly named SuperFast gearbox which delivers an exceptional gear-shifting time of 100 milliseconds and a reduced inertia clutch to enhance the engine’s responsiveness still further. The iconic Ferrari manettino, now featured on the entire range, has also been added to the steering wheel.

Another model being showcased at Geneva is the F430 Spider, a rear-engined 8-cylinder that combines blistering performance with open-top driving pleasure. The version on the stand is displayed in a historic colour Grigio Ferro, with a sophisticated Cioccolato interiors. The F430 Spider has proved an enormous success since its launch and in 2007 won prestige awards from international publications, such as Quattroruote, Autozeitung, Auto Illustrierte and Auto Motor und Sport.

The Company’s sporting history is also represented on the stand by the 599 GTB Fiorano, the highest performance production model ever built at Maranello and seen here in a classic Rosso Corsa livery, and the 430 Scuderia, an extreme model voted “Dream Car of the Year” by the authoritative British car magazine Top Gear.

The more track-oriented side of Ferrari’s dual soul is represented most ably on the stand by the F2007, the single-seater that won the World Championship last year, bringing to 15 the overall number of Formula 1 Drivers’ and Constructors’ titles won by Maranello so far.

612 SCAGLIETTI

The 612 Scaglietti is the result of an avant-garde design that continues the great Ferrari 2+2 tradition in fabulous style. Designed by Pininfarina, the 612 Scaglietti is named in honour of Sergio Scaglietti, the legendary Modenese stylist and coachbuilder responsible for bodying some of the most beautiful Ferraris of the 1950s and 60s. The 612 Scaglietti epitomises Ferrari’s talent for innovation and design. This thrillingly nimble, beautifully balanced sporty front-engined rear-wheel drive berlinetta offers a cabin capable of accommodating four occupants in unprecedented onboard comfort, thanks to a host of accessories and a fantastic specification. The 612 Scaglietti is a sumptuous, roomy two-door four-seater that’s a pleasure to be aboard regardless of the driving conditions.

The chassis and bodywork. These are made entirely from light, tough aluminium which translates into enhanced performance, braking and road-holding all in one.

Engine The V12 engine has a dry sump lubrication system featuring both delivery and scavenge pumps, twin overhead cams, 48 valves, maximum power of 540 hp at 7250 rpm, maximum torque of 60 kgm at 5250 rpm. The car has a maximum speed of 320 kph, and 0 to 100 kph acceleration of 4.0 secs.

Gearbox, 6-speed, F1-type featuring new SuperFast technology that cuts gear-shifting times to 100 milliseconds. Courtesy of either the steering wheel-mounted manettino and specific button, the gearbox can easily switch from very high performance situations to city or touring driving.

Clutch: Twin-plate to reduce weight and rotating masses as well as thermal and mechanical inertia.

Brakes. Carbon-ceramic material (CCM) Brembo brakes with vented discs that are fade and vibration-resistant even in extreme and intensive situations. The fact that the brakes are so light also reduces the unsprung masses. Large-diameter discs: 380x36mm with 6-pot callipers front and 360×34 and 4-pot callipers rear.

Ferrari SUV

simonie — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:26:04 +0000

In the past there were rumors saying that Maserati will build an SUV based on the Kubang concept unveiled at the 2003 Detroit Auto Show. If built the SUV was supposed to share the same platform with the future Alfa Romeo SUV. We suppose that a future Ferrari SUV will share the same platform with the production version of the Maserati Kubang.

The 2010 Ferrari SUV will be placed (regarding its dimensions) between the Porsche Cayenne Turbo and BMW X5, so this means it will have a length of approx 4.6 meters and will weight around 5000 lbs due to the use of high tech materials.

Maserati Kubang Concept

Under the bonnet of the 2010 Ferrari SUV there will be the same V12 engine used in the 599 GTB that develops 611 hp, but due to the bigger weight of the SVU, it is expected the maximum power to be somewhere arround 600 hp. It will hit a top speed of 186 mph and will make the 0 to 60 mph sprint in just 5 seconds.

2008 Ferrari FXX Evolution Package

simonie — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:22:33 +0000

The FXX is not homologated for road use and there are no plans to compete with it either. In fact, the FXX prototype is designed exclusively for track driving as part of a specific R&D programme agreed with a selected group of just over 20 clients involving 14 group test sessions and 14 private ones in the last two years. Thanks to readings taken over the 16,500 kilometres of tests carried out in 2006 and the 18,500 kilometres covered in 2007, the modifications made to the car have focused on honing its aerodynamics, running gear and electronics. Seven-times Formula 1 World Champion Michael Schumacher also joined the ranks of the client test drivers and gave the programme the benefit of his vast experience on several occasions.

Maranello’s engineers studied the wealth of information gained to develop a kit which will cut the FXX’s Fiorano lap time to under 1’16’’ (previously it was 1’18’’). The FXX’s 6262 cc V12 engine can now punch out a massive 860 hp at 9500 rpm. Gearshifting takes just 60 ms, a drop of 20 ms on the previous time, and the gear ratios have been adapted to make use of the extra 1000 rpm now delivered by the engine.

The car’s new traction control system, developed in close collaboration with the GES Racing Division engineers, gives the driver a choice of no less than nine different settings (plus the off position) which are selected using a switch on the central tunnel. This means that the driver really can modify the car’s behaviour on the track from corner to corner, just as the Formula 1 drivers do to maximise performance and reduce tyre wear. The FXX’s traction control is also now less invasive and more flexible, adapting more efficiently to the individual driving style of each driver – a requirement pinpointed when this very extreme car was being driven on the track by non-professional drivers.

The FXX’s special 19″ Bridgestone tyres now last longer too thanks to a new car setup and new front suspension geometry, while the Brembo brakes, which boast large Composite Ceramic Material (CCM) discs, are more efficient with the result that the brake pads last twice as long. Thanks to the drivers’ feedback the Ferrari engineers have also developed new aerodynamic solutions aimed at increasing downforce over the rear axle. The FXX now sports a new rear diffuser, nolder and rear flaps which have combined to increase aerodynamic efficiency by 25% overall. The active front spoiler control system settings have been adjusted to take these modifications into account too. New telemetry monitoring of the steering angle and brake pump pressure will further boost the interaction between Client test drivers and the company’s engineers also. From next year onwards, it will be possible for drivers to have two extra video cameras mounted on their car in addition the existing rear-facing one. This will, of course, give the drivers excellent rear visibility without having to impinge in any way on the car’s aerodynamics.

The FXX evolution package includes participation in a series of track events that Ferrari is organising at international circuits for 2008/2009. Six events are planned for each year (two in North America, two in Europe and two in Asia). In addition to these, the FXXs will also be participating, as per tradition, in the prestigious end-of-season Ferrari World Finals.

2008 Ferrari F430 GT California

simonie — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:15:39 +0000

For sure the model that the Italian maker is preparing for the Detroit Auto Show will make the 0 to 60 mph sprint much faster compared with the time needed to say it’s name, but the most important thing about the F430 GT California 2+2 CC it is contained in its name: Ferrari will be offering a coupe-convertible with 2+2 seats powered by the same V8 engine used in the F430.

The 2008 Ferrari F430 GT California will be designed by Pininfarina and will feature the latest version of the F430 family’s aluminium spaceframe. The chassis will be updated and strengthened to accommodate the roof structure and to provide optimum rigidity roof-down. Thanks to the front engine, the new Ferrari will have a small pair of rear seats.

2008 Ferrari F430 GT California

Under the hood of the F430 GT California you will see a 4.3 liter V8 direct injection engine with an output of 450 hp. It will feature the same F1 “Superfast” sequential-shift gearbox as in the F430 Scuderia and the manual gearbox will be offered as an option.

The F1 Superfast will reduce gearchange times to just 60 milliseconds. F430 GT California will also feature the same traction control used in the Scuderia, which will combine the E-Diff electronic differential and the F1-Trac traction and stability control in a single integrated system.

It is expected that the F430 GT California to make the 0 to 60 mph sprint in less than four seconds and have a top speed of 195 mph.

The F430 Gt California will be offered in both 2+2 seats and 2 seats versions.

History

1980-1993 Ferrari Mondial

The Ferrari Mondial was the only 2+2 model offered by Ferrari and produced from 1980 through 1993. The “Mondial” took it’s name from Ferrari’s history: the famed 500 Mondial race car of the early 1950s. It was designed by Pininfarina and it’s 12 years life, Ferrari produced more than 6,800 units.

Ferrari Mondial

The first version of the Mondial was the Mondial 8 introduced in 1980. It used a mid/rear-mounted V8, shared with the 308, mounted transversely. The engine used just two valves per cylinder. The chassis was also based on the 308 GT4, but with a 100 mm longer wheelbase at 2650 mm. The suspension was double wishbones all around.

A four valves per cylinder engine was introduced in 1982. Output was 240 hp.

A Cabriolet version was unveiled in 1983.

In 1985, Mondial grow bigger and powerful: a 3.2 liter engine was used with an output of 270 hp. Styling was refreshed with painted bumpers and new wheels. The 3.2 also boasted interior updates and later cars sported anti-lock brakes.

Ferrari Modial t

With the introduction of the Mondial t in 1989, Ferrari unveiled the “new generation of V8 Ferraris.” It was powered by a 3.4 liter V8 engine with an output of 300 hp. The 3.4 liter V8 was now controlled by Bosch DME 2.5 (later DME 2.7) electronic engine management that integrated EFI and ignition control into a single computer unit. Two of these were used in the car: one for each bank of the engine. Engine lubrication was upgraded to a dry-sump system.

Competitors

Aston Martin V8 Vantage

Aston Martin unveiled one of the most eagerly anticipated convertibles at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show on Wednesday 29th November. Aston Martin Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez said: “The V8 Vantage Roadster is a pure sports car, a car that heightens the senses and provides a dynamically thrilling driving experience.”

Developed from the outset alongside the V8 Vantage Coupe which was launched in 2005, the Roadster shares the unique-to-Aston Martin bonded aluminium VH (Vertical Horizontal) architecture – the backbone to all modern Aston Martins. Adding to this structure, sophisticated materials such as lightweight alloys, magnesium and advanced composites are used for the body, further contributing to the car’s low weight and high rigidity.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage

The Vantage Roadster delivers exceptional performance with careful development and engineering ensuring that the Roadster equals the achievements of its Coupe sibling, with 0-100km/h (62mph) achieved in 5.0 seconds (0-60mph in 4.9 seconds) and a potential maximum speed of 280km/h (175mph).

Vantage Roadster is available with two transmission alternatives from launch. Offered as standard is the fast-shifting, six-speed Graziano conventional stick-shift manual gearbox, with ratios perfectly matched to the performance of the V8 engine. This is joined by Aston Martin’s new Sportshift automated manual transmission – an ultra-quick system that provides the driver with heightened precision via fingertip control of gear changes using paddles to progress smoothly and swiftly through the ratios.

Jaguar XKR

Unveiled at the 2006 paris Motor Show, the Jaguar XKR takes the Jaguar experience to new heights. The new XK is designed, engineered and developed at the company’s Whitley Product Development Centre in Coventry. There, some of the most advanced facilities in the car industry – including computer-aided design, advanced engineering, vehicle component development, safety test centres and engine testing – are used to create world-class cars such as the X-TYPE, S-TYPE, XJ and of course XK.

The supercharged 4.2-liter V8 under the XKR’s hood features twin air intakes and continuously variable valve timing-mated to what Jag claims is a “class-leading” six-speed automatic paddle-shift transmission-and cranks out 120 more horses than the normally aspirated version driving the standard XK, with an added 113 lb-ft of torque on tap. Jaguar claims it’s enough power to help propel the XKR coupe from 0 to 60 mph in only 4.9 seconds, just slightly longer (5.0 seconds) for the convertible.

Jaguar XKR

Like the normally aspirated XK model, the new XKR makes intelligent use of practical, modern technology such as its industry-leading aluminium monocoque body structure. In addition, an uprated 420bhp (SAE) supercharged V8 engine and class-leading calibration of its state-of-the-art, six-speed automatic transmission bring it a level of accessible, real-world performance that makes the XKR the most impressive, everyday, sporting GT in its class.

2009 Ferrari Dino

simonie — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:02:58 +0000

Set to go on sale at the beginning of 2009 (and a spyder version later on), its name honours the founder Enzo Ferrari´s son, Alfredino “Dino” Ferrari, who died in 1956 at the age of 24 from a muscular dystrophy.

The 2009 Dino will follow the trend set by the 246 Dino GT and GTS from 1968 and 1971, and the 308 GTB and GTS from 1975 and 1977.

Ferrari started to work at the new Dino in 2004, but the company changed its plans and the result was a Maserati. The chassis and the technology used in the Maserati model are now going to be adopted for the new Dino; as a result the new 2+2 Coupe will be smaller than the 612.

If the classic Dino was powered by a V6 engine, the upcoming model will be a 2+2 seater model powered by a 4.2 liter V8 (from Maserati) engine with an output of 400 hp.

The new 2+2 Coupe will sit on a new aluminum chassis made by Alcoa at the new facility in Modena and that will replace the old Scaglietti workshop.

The design work for the upcoming Dino will be made by Pininfarina with input from former Ferrari design boss Frank Stephenson, who now heads Fiat´s Centro Stile operation.

Body construction and materials will be taken from Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione.

Ferrari expects to sell around 4000 units a year after the car will hit the market in 2009.

History

In the late 1960’s through the 1970’s Ferrari produced the Dino series – the 206, 246 and 308, for a total of approximately 7,750 Dinos. The Dino brand was meant to be used for cars with engines that had fewer than 12 cylinders, reserving the Ferrari name for the V-12 and flat 12 models.

Ferrari Dino 206 GT

Dino suggested the development of a 1,5 litre V6 engine on his father cars. This engines were quad-cam engines with just 2 valves per cylinder and used flat-plane crankshafts.So the next decade, were used successfully in Grand Prix, Formula 2 and sports prototype machinery. The V6 had become one of Ferrari’s most successful engines, especially in F1.

The first Dino conceptualised as a road car debuted at 1965’s Paris Salon, Pininfarina displaying their stunning 206 GT Berlinetta Speciale on what was also the first 206 S chassis. The 206 GT used a transverse-mounted 2.0 L all-aluminum, 180 hp at 8000 rpm redline, 65 degree V6 engine, Dual overhead camshafts, 9.7:1 Compression ratio. Torque was 138 lbs-ft at 6500 rpm. Top speed was 146 mph.

Ferrari Dino 246 GTS

More power was required and the second version, Dino 246 developed 195 hp (at 7,600 rpm) from a 2.4 liter engine. It was available as a coupe (GT) from 1970 and as a open spyder (GTS) a year latter.

The last version, Dino 308 GT4 came in 1975 with a Bertone 2+2 angular body. It was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show and it first featured a controversial styling, due to its angular lines. The chassis was stretched for a 2550 mm wheelbase to make room for a second row of seats, and was based on the 246 Dino.

Ferrari Dino 308 GT4

The 308 GT4 V-8 had a 90 degree, dual over head camshaft, 2927 cc engine with 4 Weber carburetors which produced 250 horsepower. The V-8 block and heads were made of alloy. The compression ratio was 8.8:1. The American version had a timing change and an air-pump which produced a modest 230 horsepower.

Competition

2008 Audi R8

The mid-mounted 420 bhp V8 FSI engine, quattro permanent four-wheel drive and Audi Space Frame aluminium body form the basis for truly outstanding driving dynamics. The Audi R8 will be available to order from 28 September 2006; first deliveries will be made in the first half of 2007.

As the first Audi mid-engined sports car, the R8 combines Audi’s experience gained from numerous motorsport triumphs with groundbreaking design and the acknowledged technological expertise of the brand. This expertise has led to the slogan ’Vorsprung durch Technik’ becoming a byword for leading-edge technology both on the race track and on the road.

Audi R8

The characteristic proportions of the vehicle are dictated by the location of the engine behind the cockpit. This layout is a typical feature of race cars. One of the most striking examples of this design – and as such one of the legitimate antecedents of the Audi R8 – was, and still is, the Auto Union Type C Grand Prix car. The central position of the engine is above all a boon to driving dynamics, as it allows for a weight distribution, as on the R8, of 44 percent to the front and 56 percent to the rear. Price: $109.000

Porsche 911 Turbo

The primary objective for every 911 Turbo is to challenge the limits of technical feasibility. Not only in terms of performance and dynamics, but also when it comes to ride comfort. On this latest evolution, we’ve completely redesigned a number of systems and components. The result builds on the achievements of the previous 911 Turbo – a car widely acknowledged as the ultimate in sportscar design.

Porsche 911 Turbo (997)

As you would expect, the new 911 Turbo meets the highest expectations in terms of engine performance. The classic flat-six unit develops 353 kW (480 bhp) at 6,000 rpm from a 3.6-litre displacement. Maximum torque of 620 Nm is available between 1,950 and 5,000 rpm. To achieve that capability, we’ve combined VarioCam Plus with twin turbocharger units featuring Variable Turbine Geometry (VTG) – a totally new technology on a petrol-engined car. With a standard manual gearbox, the new 911Turbo requires just 3.9 seconds to reach 100 km/h (62 mph).

Equipped with the latest optional Tiptronic S transmission, the car is 0.2 seconds quicker on the standard sprint. Benchmark times to 200 km/h (124 mph) are 12.8 and 12.2 seconds, respectively. Maximum speed with either transmission is 310 km/h (193 mph). Price: $126.000.

Lamborghini Gallardo

With the purchase of Lamborghini by Audi/Volkswagen in 1998, an interesting challenge arised: adjusting the hot-blooded and temperamental machines to the Teutonic levels of quality and engineering. The result was the Italian supercar maker’s Lamborghini Gallardo. It met Audi’s mission to keep the style and attitude of V12-powered cars like Countach, Diablo and Murcielago but to make the car more usable and livable for daily use. This has been greeted with very positive reviews and strong sales, since the Gallardo’s debut in 2004.

Lamborghini Gallardo

The aluminum V10 engine has been upped slightly for 2006 and tops out at 520 hp at 8,000 rpm and 376 pound-feet of torque at 4,500 rpm. It launches the car from zero to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds. The gasoline consumption is estimated at a 10 mpg city / 19 mpg highway rate. The V10 features an 18-degree offset crankshaft for even firing, continuously variable valve timing, dry-sump oiling and a variable-length induction system. All the V10 power is fed to the pavement through an AWD system that can vary front-to rear, if necessary, as the suspension front and rear is a double-wishbone design. The stopping duties are handled by the Beefy Brembo brakes that have eight-piston calipers clamping things down up things. Price: $175000

2008 Ferrari F430 Scuderia

simonie — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:52:50 +0000

The new model is a special series based on the F430 and is aimed specifically at Ferrari’s most passionate and sports-driving oriented clients. Development focused on light weight, minimum trimmings and innovative technology. All this to exalt the car’s extremely high-performance and ability to thrill the driver.

The new car can count on an extremely low weight-to-power ratio of just 2.45 kg per hp thanks to a low dry weight of just 1250 kg – 100 kg less than the standard F430 – and to the naturally-aspirated 4308cc V8’s 510 hp at 8500 rpm.

Superb performance both on and off the track is assured by a series of cutting-edge solutions. There is the latest F1 software – Superfast – which reduces gearchange times to just 60 milliseconds, and new traction control which, for the first time, combines the E-Diff electronic differential and the F1-Trac traction and stability control in a single integrated system.

Vehicle dynamics, control and performance thus represent the zenith of Ferrari’s achievements in terms of developing road-certified sports cars.

2010 Ferrari F450 Preview

simonie — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:46:21 +0000

Spy photographers have caught in tests several mules that point clearly that a replacement for the F430 is in development al Maranello. Driving on the Fiorano race-track and disguised as F430 Challenge Stradale, the test cars show a medium development stage for the smallest Ferrari.

Early rumors pointed that the new car will be equipped with a V10 engine, in order to be successfully compete against the Lamborghini Gallardo. The changes made to Formula 1 regulations, that nowadays require the use of V8 engines, make this step irrational; therefore it is logical for Ferrari to stick with the traditional V8 configuration.

The main competitor, the child of the other Italian supercar producing house, the Lamborghini Gallardo uses a 5.0 liter originated from Audi. One might expect that Ferrari will improve their new comer displacement up to the same value in order to provide the same level of performance.

2010 Ferrari F450

But, Ferrari is known to offer some of the best power per displacement ratios; therefore they are expected to produce 500 or more bhp, by only increasing the displacement to 4.5 liters. The rest of the power gain will be due to an increased maximum rev limit, of up to 10,000 rpm, improved air flowing and cooling.

Design lines will not be a revolution, but will be changed in order to keep up with the technical advances. All of the air intakes will be enlarged to ensure an increment in the cooling required by the improved engine and brakes. At the rear there is a possibility to see middle mounted exhausts, inspired by the Challenge Stradale.

History

Ferrari F355

The Ferrari F355 was build by Ferrari from 1994 to 1999 when it was replaced by Ferrari 360. The Ferrari F355, the fruit of half of century experience in V8 mid-engined coupes, is considered to be the greatest production sports-car of the 20th Century. It was the best selling Ferrari in history until that time, the car that saved the brand from imminent bankruptcy and the first model to be produced under the new leadership of Luca di Montezemolo. With performance figures that are enviable even a decade after the cars launch and an immortal design, the F355 is considered by many to be the most beautiful modern Ferrari.

Ferrari F355

The 1995 Ferrari F355 had as a basis the previous V8 engine Ferrari, the 348. The famous Italian design studio and Ferrari traditional partner, Pininfarina, did the styling of the new model. The F355 was produced between 1995 and 1999 in nearly 12,000 units and become one of the most popular Ferrari’s of all time. At launch it was available in fixed-head Berlinetta (or GTB) and Targa (GTS) followed later by a roadster (Spider) variant. The Spider was Ferrari’s first vehicle with an electronically actuated soft top.

The engine enhancements over the previous 348 model included an increased displacement from 207 cui to 213 cui and five valves per cylinder that allowed an 80 bhp plus. With 380 bhp the nearly 3000 pound F355 was able to reach 60 mph just 4.9 seconds and peak at a maximum of 183 mph. Additional improvements over the 348 l were the adjustable suspension that could accommodate various types of driving conditions, enhanced Brembo disc brakes and a steel and aluminum body that offered extra rigidity while remaining light-weight. In 1988, the Ferrari F355 was the first production vehicle to be equipped with a sequential gear-box operated by paddle shifters located on the steering wheel.

From 360 Modena to 360 Stradale and then to 360 Challenge Stradale

In 1999 Ferrari launched the first model from a 3-models series: the 360 Modena. The car is powered by a 3.586cc V8 engine with an output of 400 hp at 8500 rpm. The car has a curb weight of 3064 lbs and with the 400 hp it was easy to reach the 60 mph just in 4.3 seconds. The 360 Modena has a top speed of 185 mph.

The 360 Modena was designed as an interpretation of the Ferrari berlinetta with a V8 engine for the 21st century, radically innovative features such as significant weight reduction, a larger body and a higher level of equipment. One extremely important element, which is new on a Ferrari road car, is the use of aluminium to build the entire frame, combined with the bodyshell and chassis components which are also fabricated in aluminium.

Ferrari F360

In 2000 Ferrari introduced the 360 Challenge Series which gave privateers an opportunity to race modified Ferrari’s in a regulated environment. The Challenge version was created to compete in the Ferrari Challenge Championship.

The car was powered by the same 3586 cc V8 engine with an output of 400 hp. The car has a curb weight of 2550 lbs and makes the 0 to 60 mph sprint in 4 seconds and has a top speed of 183 mph.

The Challenge Stradale version was launched in 2003. It is powered by a more powerful V8 engine and has a bigger top speed. The car accelerates from 0 to 60 in 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 186 mph.

The Challenge Stradale is equipped with the previous 360 Modena 90° V8 engine mounted centrally behind the cabin in a longitudinal configuration as a single block together with the gearbox and differential. Peak power output of the V8 engine has been raised to 425 bhp at 8,500 rpm to give an exceptional power rating that exceeds 118.5 bhp/litre.

From F430 to F430 Challenge and then to F430 Challenge Stradale

In 2004 a more powerful Ferrari was launched: the Ferrari F430. It is powered by a 4,300 cc 90° V8 engine, which punches out 490 hp to achieve a specific output of 114 hp/litre. The car makes the 0 to 60 mph acceleration in 4 seconds flat and has a top speed of 196 mph.

The aerodynamic design embodies the very latest competition technologies, specifically the flat underbody and large rear diffuser to increase downforce.

The car offers a series of extremely significant innovations directly derived from the Ferrari Formula 1 single-seaters. Two of these innovations are world firsts for production cars: the electronic differential (E-Diff) and the steering wheel-mounted switch (better known to the Formula 1 Scuderia’s drivers as “manettino”), which manages the integrated systems governing vehicle dynamics.

Ferrari F430

The next step was the F430 Challenge launched in 2005. The car is specifically designed to meet the expectations of its sportier clients. The F430 Challenge retains the same general look and 490 hp engine as the F430 and it also incorporates a large number of significant track-oriented modifications and a host of new features not seen in the car currently used in the series, the 360 Challenge.

The F430 Challenge boasts a kerb weight of just 2700 lbs (1,225 kg), excluding petrol. Weight has been reduced in every area of the car, from the engineering to the bodywork. Of particular note are the Lexan windscreen, the all-carbon fibre intake plenum cover, and the specific exhaust system. It has a top speed of 198 mph.

The next step will be the F430 Challenge Stradale. he F430 CS will have a more powerful V8 engine than the F430 Challenge. For example, for the 360, both Modena and 360 Challenge were powered by a V8 engine with an output of 400 hp and the 360 CS got a more powerful engine: a 325 hp V8.

The F430 and F430 Challenge are powered by a 490 hp V8 engine and we expect the new F430 CS to get by the same V8 engine, but with bigger output: 520 hp. The standard F430 has a curb weight of 3196 lbs and it is expected that the new F430 CS to be 220 lbs lighter. What will be the difference between 430 Challenge and 430 CS? The biggest changes are the exhaust pipes that got moved up a bit and are producing a lot of great music to all Ferrari fans out there. The F430 uses aluminum extensively, so carbon-fiber components will be used in the quest for reduced mass: the inside of the doors for example will be made of carbon fiber.

Competitors

Lamborghini Gallardo

Lamborghini Gallardo

The aluminum V10 engine tops out at 520 hp at 8,000 rpm and 376 pound-feet of torque at 4,500 rpm. It launches the car from zero to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds. The gasoline consumption is estimated at a 10 mpg city / 19 mpg highway rate. The V10 features an 18-degree offset crankshaft for even firing, continuously variable valve timing, dry-sump oiling and a variable-length induction system. All the V10 power is fed to the pavement through an AWD system that can vary front-to rear, if necessary, as the suspension front and rear is a double-wishbone design. The stopping duties are handled by the Beefy Brembo brakes that have eight-piston calipers clamping things down up things.

The chassis is a mix of alloy stampings, extruded elements and castings. The exterior is composed of thermoplastic panels, except for the doors, which are made of steel and swing out, instead of upward scissor-style.

Audi R8

The genes of the triumphant racing car were also passed on to the passenger car – which admittedly feels distinctly at home on the racetrack, too – in the model designation R8. The mid-engine concept is as integral to this genetic stock as the high-revving V8 engine with FSI petrol direct injection and the sequential gearbox with steering-wheel control. Whereas the use of quattro permanent four-wheel drive was prohibited on the racing version, the new R8 can of course now be equipped with it, for superior road behaviour and safety in all conditions.

Audi R8

The new Audi R8 now transfers this superiority from the racetrack to the road: like its role-model from Le Mans, it derives its power from a high-revving V8, located ahead of the rear wheels as a mid-engine. The 4.2-litre engine is a new development that features a full array of motor racing technology in the guise of dry-sump lubrication, straight intake ports and an exhaust manifold with equal-length pipes for all cylinders. Impressive performance figures.

This engineering achievement is suitably reflected by a host of impressive figures: the engine’s top speed is a notable 8,250 rpm. The engine delivers its peak output of 420 bhp at 7,800 rpm. With its displacement of 4,163 cm3, this outstanding engine breaks through the magic barrier for a production vehicle of 100 bhp per litre. The high-revving concept also means that the maximum piston speed is 24.1 metres per second at the engine’s rated speed. Every piston thus changes direction around 275 times per second. The torque is equally impressive: the peak value of 430 Newton-metres is achieved between engine speeds of 4,500 and 6,000 rpm. Better still, at least 90 percent of this figure is achieved across the impressively wide speed range from 3,500 to 7,500 rpm. This assures thrust across an extensive range of engine speeds and therefore superb pulling power, enabling the driver to drive in a relaxed style without frequent gear changes.

Porsche 911 Turbo

Porsche 911 Turbo (997)

The classic flat-six unit develops 353 kW (480 bhp) at 6,000 rpm from a 3.6-litre displacement. Maximum torque of 620 Nm is available between 1,950 and 5,000 rpm. To achieve that capability, we’ve combined VarioCam Plus with twin turbocharger units featuring Variable Turbine Geometry (VTG) – a totally new technology on a petrol-engined car. With a standard manual gearbox, the new 911Turbo requires just 3.9 seconds to reach 100 km/h (62 mph). Equipped with the latest optional Tiptronic S transmission, the car is 0.2 seconds quicker on the standard sprint. Benchmark times to 200 km/h (124 mph) are 12.8 and 12.2 seconds, respectively. Maximum speed with either transmission is 310 km/h (193 mph).

2007 Ferrari 612 Sessanta

simonie — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:06:07 +0000

Special contents:

Exterior colours
The sixty cars shall be available alternatively in the following exterior colours:

Two-colour special style:
- Grigio scuro (Colori Classici ’50-’60) / Nero with grigio scuro side line
- Rubino Micalizzato / Nero Daytona with Rubino Micalizzato side line.

The following special colour features are added as well:

Special colour of underbody black in technical black
Colour treatment of the front headlight and rear bumper details in silver.

Exterior contents

Electro-chromic panoramic roof panel with three transparency positions
New monolithic and forged 19”/19” wheel rims
Specific wheel cups
Radiator grill with specific painted frame
Chromium-plated rear grids with black chromed special exhaust pipes
“612 Sessanta” emblem on front fender

Interior colours
Interiors are featured by a single-colour environment, with slightly contrasting stitching. Two choices are available.

New Natural leather, “Terra Bruciata” coloured (exclusive colour on 612 Sessanta), including:
- Marrone carpets
- Interior details in Grigio Scuro (dash cross member, door panel details, tunnel plate)
- Black seat belts
- Terra Bruciata colour for steering wheel, dashboard, rear shell, and upper interior part

Those interiors are exclusively available with Grigio Scuro / Nero livery.
New Natural leather Charcoal coloured, including:

Grigio Scuro carpets
Interior details in Rubino Micalizzato (dash cross member, door panel details, tunnel plate)
Grigio seat belts
Charcoal colour for steering wheel, dashboard, rear shell, and upper interior part

Those interiors are exclusively available with Rubino Micalizzato / Nero Daytona livery.

Interior content

Steering wheel with three-position Manettino and Engine Start button
Exclusive upholstery style for seats, door panels and rear sides
Specific central tunnel upholstered and fully equipped, with 2 cup-holding compartments and rear handles
Four pockets on door panels, two of them closed
Specially-styled instrument cluster
Unique plate celebrating the 60-year anniversary on F1 gearbox plate
Leather upholstered and equipped boot

Further contents

CCM braking system with black calipers
Bose Media System
Rear Parking Camera
TV Tuner
Cruise Control

Ferrari FXX Millechili

simonie — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:32:39 +0000

There are no photos of the concept yet, called FXX Millechili, but we know it will be pointing to the eco technologies destined for future supercars.

According to Car Magazine, Ferrari has announced the full details of a new programme designed to make all cars bearing the Prancing Horse cleaner, leaner and greener.

All we know about this new concept is that it looks like a shrunken Enzo.

The FXX Millechili Concept is a reaction to pressures to clamp down on fuel economy and emissions, especially in Europe and the US.

The future Ferrari will have a smaller capacity engine capable of runing on E80 bioethanol fuel. Transmissions will also be smaller and lighter. Also the aerodynamics will be modified. Ferrari is currently working with Imperial College London on an advanced active aerodynamics system that involves using air pumps to push air over and under the car.

All this changes will come starting 2017 probably.

Ferrari 612 Scaglietti Wallpaper Edition

simonie — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 20:15:22 +0000

The leading magazine for design, interiors, fashion and travel, Wallpaper customized eight months ago a one-off Ferrari 612 Scaglietti. After a string of auto shows across the UK the car has been delivered in Belfast to its new owner, Paul Hill.

Wallpaper, the lifestyle magazine was invited to design a stylish and sophisticated Ferrari 612 Scaglietti which reflected the desire for a unique Ferrari which defines luxury and taste.

The car was specified in two-tone paint scheme, with two complementary colours Nero and Blu Pozzi which are also silhouetted in the interior of the car, which has Nero and Blu Scuro leather Daytona seats with Blu stitching.The car is part of Ferrari’s Carrozzeria Scaglietti Personalization Program, which allows customers the opportunity to totally revamp the interior.

The other interior additions include embossed labels on the aluminum kick plates and glove box lid, plus a custom-made leather pocket to hold the latest issue of the magazine.

The car features some truly bespoke elements in addition to the Handling GTC package and F1 gearbox. The performance upgrade includes massive Brembo Carbon Ceramic brakes up front, stiffer suspension with electronic controlled dampers and 19in alloys shod with Pirelli PZero Corsa tires.

1984-1991 Ferrari Testarossa

simonie — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 19:08:57 +0000

In 1982 Pininfarina was commissioned to style a 12-cylinder Ferrari with radiators in the flanks like a racing car, GT-level luggage and storage space, extreme comfort, and performance to top the road-car line of the world’s premier sports car manufacturer. The Testarossa was to be shaped partly by the wind tunnel to ensure clean airflow, low noise and high speed stability. Rear location of the radiators made the car’s aerodynamics even more important as passive direction of air to and from the engine bay had to be very effective. The result of Pininfarina’s labors was easily the most recognizable and influential car of its time. The Testarossa is unmistakable at any distance, and impossible to ignore.

Based on the outgoing Berlinetta Boxer that had so admirably preceded it, the Testarossa was intended to be a faster, better handling, more spacious and more luxurious car than the BB, a machine that wasn’t initially legal for sale in the US due to federal safety and emissions legislation. However, the Testarossa was designed from the outset as a world car – legal in every country.

Testarossa debuted at the Paris Auto Show in September 1984 as a replacement for the 512 BB. Ferrari’s Testarossa was half of perhaps the greatest double act in supercar history. An era defining rivalry saw it pitched head-to-head with Lamborghini’s awesome Countach and between them, they were the kings of the road.

Technically the Testarossa was almost identical to the 512 BBi it replaced, but on the outside the two were quite different. Functionality was the entire reason why the Testarossa looked so different. The single rear mounted radiator used in the two ‘BB’ models was replaced by one on either side of the engine. The engine alone was already quite substantial in width, but with a radiator on either side, the complete package needed a two meter wide rear body to house it properly.

This was not the first Testa Rossa in Ferrari’s history. It was first used as ’TR’ almost thirty years earlier for Ferrari’s four and twelve cylinder engined sports-prototype racers. Italian for ’red head’, Testarossa referred to the bright red cylinder heads used on the engines. The most famous of these was the multiple 24 Hours of LeMans winning 250 TR.

Motor racing had proven in the preceding decade that mounting the engine behind the driver was an improvement over mounting it in front.

The engine was a modified version of the 512 BB. It had four-valves per cylinder, Marelli electronic ignition, Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, and capable of producing 390 bhp from the 4943 cc horizontally opposed 12 cylinder. The zero-to-sixty time was about 5.3 seconds and top speed was above 180 mph.

Ferrari’s five-lite Flat-12 was ultimately derived from the 1975 312 T Grand Prix contender, these cars going on to win both F1 Drivers and Constructors Championships. The Testarossa’s look, performance and reputation made it perhaps the ultimate eighties status symbol, a reputation it could well do without today. Using a welded tubular steel frame, the chassis wasn’t too dissimilar from the outgoing BB, just a few dimensional tweaks being made here and there. The wheelbase was stretched from 2500 to 2550mm, the track widened and a removable engine subframe used that could be un-bolted from the main chassis in order to allow easier access to the engine. Displacement of the 180° Flat-12 motor was 4942cc, this thanks to a bore and stroke of 82 x 78mm respectively. Output was 390bhp at 5300rpm, compression being set at 9.2:1. An important revision came in the form of Ferrari’s four-valve cylinder heads (known as Quattrovalvole), all the various Berlinetta Boxer’s having only ever featured two-valve heads.

This Testarossa was built for the US market and made its way into those showrooms during 1985. The vehicle was designed to comply with the US emissions, regulations, and safety restrictions.

The low rectangular instrument binnacle was dominated by a large speedometer and tachometer and smaller auxilliary gauges in a split black facia. Various indicator lights were offset around these orange and white on black readouts. Beneath the instruments the adjustable steering column extended a thin rimmed, leather covered, three spoke Momo steering wheel towards the driver.

Along with the luggage shelf behind the seats, the Testarossa offered carpeted cargo space beneath the front hood. This compartment was a deep cruciform, providing room for shopping or luggage. The carrying capacity of the Testarossa in the front and passenger compartments was maximized by use of fitted Schedoni luggage, an option available from Ferrari dealers.

Pininfarina fabricated the bodywork from a mixture of steel (for the cabin and doors), plastic (for the front and rear bumpers) and aluminium (pretty much everything else). From day one, the Testarossa was designed to be bigger, better equipped and a little more luxurious than the Berlinetta Boxer. So, although the BB’s instrument binnacle was retained, the cabin featured new seats, redesigned door inserts, a three-spoke leather covered Momo steering wheel, a new dash facia and a centre console with more modern switchgear. The traditional open gearshift remained.

The Testarossa series was made from a variety of materials to appropriately maximize its functional form. Apart from the galvanized steel roof and doors, and various glass fiber pieces, the body panels were crafted entirely from strong but light aluminum.

The Testarossa chassis consisted of square section steel tubes arranged in a strong matrix, like a racing car. This was Ferrari’s normal practice in chassis construction until the late 1990’s.

The front suspension consisted of a coil spring over a Koni shock absorber located by unequal, length dual wishbones at each front wheel. At the rear, dual unequal length steel wishbones located a pair of coil springs over Koni shocks, one fore and one aft of each driveshaft. Front and rear anti-rollbars maintained stability in high speed cornering. The Testarossa’s brakes were vented discs a little over a foot in diameter. The hydraulically assisted four piston calipers were controlled by separate circuits front and rear. The parking brake acted on small drums contained within the rear discs. The unassisted steering was by a direct rack and pinion system.

It used a double wishbone suspension with coil-over units at the rear to help with the increase in weight. The body was aluminum with steel doors and roof.

For many generations the Testarossa was the Ferrari despite its complete lack of racing heritage and the previously mentioned more exotic Ferrari models produced in the same decade.

In 1992 production of the Testarossa ceased after almost 7200 units were sold making it one of the most popular Ferrari models ever.

Even as the Testarossa exerted a pull on the hearts and minds of car lovers, not to mention designers, Ferrari did not sit on their laurels. 1984’s Testarossa evolved into the 512TR of 1991 and the F512M of 1995. With each evolution the styling, interior, and drivetrain were enhanced in a car that was always capable of speeds exceeding 180mph, accelerated to 60mph in approximately 5 seconds, and attained almost 0.9G lateral acceleration.

The Ferrari Testarossa leaped to center stage of the automotive world in 1984 and remained there for 11 years as the world’s fastest regular production car. It was the definition of ’supercar’ in its era, the innovative benchmark against which all contemporary sports cars were measured.

2005 Ferrari FXX

simonie — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 19:00:01 +0000

The Ferrari FXX is the most advanced GT ever created at Maranello and its mission is to involve Ferrari’s most valued clients as genuine Prancing Horse Test Drivers in their own right. The wealth of data and experience gathered in the course of this very special programme will be exceptionally important.

Client Test Drivers

In fact, the feedback from these highly skilled, non-professional Client Test Drivers will be compared and supplemented with suggestions from Michael Schumacher, Rubens Barrichello and Ferrari’s professional in-house Test Drivers.

Every client who signs up for the FXX project by purchasing one of the estimated 20 or so cars being built, will actually be joining Team Ferrari, and will have his driving experiences at the wheel of this new car monitored directly by the Prancing Horse’s technicians and specialists.

FXX

The FXX is the fruit of Ferrari’s know-how in building special limited-series sports cars combined with, of course, its racing experience. It will provide the basic framework on which the specifics of future extreme models will be worked out. The exceptionally powerful FXX delivers absolutely blistering performance on all fronts.

The FXX has not been homologated for road use and thus will not be a competition model. It will be used exclusively on the track as part of a specific ongoing research and development programme featuring this first ever group of Client Test Drivers.

Engine

The FXX is powered by an imposing 6,262 cc V12 engine that can punch out over 800 hp at 8,500 rpm. Its gearbox is the result of the transfer of F1 strategies, delivering gear change times of under 100 ms. This is almost as fast as the F1 single-seaters, themselves the absolute pinnacle of current technological achievement.

Design

The FXX’s aerodynamic design is particularly innovative too as it has resulted in a shape that produces 40% higher downforce than ever achieved before. It is also possible to adjust the FXX’s mobile spoiler configuration to suit the specific circuit.

Tyres and Brakes

Ferrari’s partnership with Bridgestone has resulted in the development of a specific 19” slick tyre for this particular model. Likewise Brembo has created a special brake cooling and pad system for the FXX’s extra large Composite Ceramic Material disc brakes.

Telemetry System

What really sets the FXX apart, however, is the sophisticated telemetry system which will monitor and give feedback on 39 different vehicle dynamics parameters in real time. The system is also able to record other data as demanded by specific circumstances.

The information gathered will then be analysed by the Ferrari technicians working on the programme and discussed with the individual Client Drivers to ensure that the car is kept constantly updated.

Racing with the FXX

The Ferrari FXX package also includes participation in a series of track events to be organised by Ferrari on various international-level circuits over the coming two years. On these occasions, an official team of technicians will be on hand to provide any assistance and support required by the Client Test Driver.

In addition to these truly unique official events, clients will also be able to take their cars out on the track independently during private sessions. Clients wishing to leave their car at Maranello will be glad to know that the vehicles will be transported directly by Ferrari to the various European circuits for the scheduled events.

Given the car’s exceptional performance and the unique nature of the package, delivery of each FXX will also include an ad hoc driving course. The instructors will, of course, be professional drivers and the courses will take place at the Fiorano Circuit where Ferrari does its most important F1 single-seaters testing.

After the seat and the pedals have been individually tailored to each driver, there will be a traditional “shakedown” followed by a training session dedicated to test driving methodologies.

After a careful client order selection process, the first FXXs will be delivered by the end of this year. The initial testing of the definitive car is currently taking place at Fiorano. The FXX and the relative package cost a total of 1.5 million euro (excluding taxes) and applications to join the programme are being evaluated by a special in-house committee.

2009 Ferrari F70

simonie — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 15:40:59 +0000

The Ferrari F70 will be based on the Aurea Concept launched by Ferrari in 2004. The Aurea Project was born from the desire to place the F1 DNA on a normal car. This is what the new F70 will be about: a car with the design and power of a F1 car, but specially designed for the road.

On designing the Enzo, Ferrari needed to make some compromises in order that both the design and the technologies of the car to be satisfied. So they build the Enzo on aerodynamic consideration. But when they build the FXX they have realized that the Enzo could have all the technologies they had to give up. And in the F70 case all the aerodynamic will be hide under the car. The result is that the exterior design of the F70 won’t be affected by compromises, like in the case of the Enzo due to the aerodynamic technology developed by Ferrari and used in the FXX.

2009 Ferrari F70

The front design will combine modern elements inspired from F1 cars with retro touches from the old supercars. The F70 will be made of carbon-fibre, and this will help to reduce the weight, thing that is necessary considering the big output of the car.

Like on the future F430 CS, the F70 will feature Magnesium sport wheels and the carbon grille in the back (also good to better cool the engine). The brakes will be upgraded with bigger discs, the soft Pirelli P-Zero tires give the car enormous grip, and the interior is completed with deep sport seats.

In the same style as the Ferrari P4/5, the F70’s two exhaust pipes will be mounted like the F1 cars on the top of the back end, and other two down in the diffuser.

2009 Ferrari F70 – rear

The Ferrari Enzo it is powered by a V12 engine delivering 660 hp. The power on the F70 will grow with around 100 hp. Initially there were rumors that the F70 will have an output more than 800 hp, but Ferrari said that they have no intention of building a competitor for the Bugatti Veyron, and also a car with such an output will generate lots of problems, including heating and weight.

It is expected that the V12 on the F70 to deliver not more than 750 hp. This output will help the car to make the 0 to 60 mph sprint in less than 3 seconds and a top speed of 235 hp.

Ferrari limited the Enzo at 390 units. We expect that the F70 to be limited at 300 units and be priced somewhere at $700.000.

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History

1962-1964 Ferrari 250 GTO

The Ferrari 250 GTO was a sports car and auto racing car made by Ferrari in the early 1960s. It is widely considered to be the quintessential Ferrari model, and one of the greatest sports cars – indeed, one of the greatest automobiles – of all time.

Ferrari 250 GTO

The Ferrari 250 GTO was designed to compete in GT racing. It was an evolution of the 250 GT SWB. Chief engineer Giotto Bizzarrini took the chassis from the 250 GT SWB and mated it with the 3.0 L V12 engine from the 250 Testa Rossa. After Bizzarrini and most other Ferrari engineers were fired in a dispute with Enzo Ferrari, development was handed over to new engineer Mauro Forghieri and designer Sergio Scaglietti. The widely-admired body was developed from work done by Bizzarini and Scaglietti and perfected in wind tunnel and track testing and, unlike most Ferraris, was not designed by a specific individual or design house.

1984-1986 Ferrari 288 GTO

Of the many great Ferraris built, the 250 GTO is what many think is the greatest. Exactly 22 years after the first GTO was launched in 1962, Ferrari announced a new model with the legendary GTO badge, the 288 GTO.

Ferrari 288 GTO

Ferrari built the 288 for one reason only; to homologate it for racing. The “O” in GTO is taken from the Italian word “Omologato”, homologation in English. Gran Touring racing was the idea for the 250, Ferrari had other plans for the 288. The very popular Group B rally class would be where the 288 would race. This meant Ferrari had to build a minimum of 200 road going GTOs to get it homologated. Production started right after its 1984 Geneva launch. A total of 273 GTOs were built.

1987-1992 Ferrari F40

The F40 was the last car introduced and commissioned by Enzo Ferrari himself. Its introduction and its name coincided with Ferrari’s 40th anniversary as an automobile constructor. The car was a celebration of the marque and the man seeking to safely provide owners with a race car for the street, embodying all the finest elements of 1987 automotive engineering.

Ferrari F40

The F40’s heart was its engine, a 2,936cc twin turbocharged, alloy 90° V8 putting out an astonishing 478bhp at 7000rpm (163bhp / liter) and 424 lb-ft of torque at 4500rpm. The engine was substantially evolved from that in the GTO, its displacement, compression ratio, and maximum boost pressure all having been raised. The other basic statistics were the same: dual overhead cams controlling four valves per cylinder, a dry sump lubrication system, separate electronic ignition and fuel injection systems for each bank of cylinders and a Weber-Marelli engine control system.

1995–1997 Ferrari F50

Thanks to the research made possible by Ferrari’s vast experience in this field, producing over 45 racing models and over 120 GT and Sports models, the F50 was built to the same tolerances and with the same integrity as a Formula 1 car.

The chassis of the F50 was made entirely of carbon fibre, weighing 225 lbs and offering a torsional rigidity of 25,677 lbs-ft/°. Like a Formula 1 car, occupants sat in the central tub formed by the chassis, and the aeronautical rubber fuel cell was located in a protected position between the passenger tub and the engine and rear suspension. The result was in advanced driving position, with a front to rear weight distribution of 42:58. A load-bearing element, the F50’s engine acted as a support for the suspension, rear bumper and bodywork elements. To guarantee perfect suspension operation, the engine-transaxle assembly was rigidly attached to the chassis.

In keeping with its brief as a Formula 1 car for the street, the F50 employed a naturally aspirated 4.7 liter narrow V12. The block was in nodular cast iron with Nikasil-coated liners. The seven main tri-metallic-bearing crank shaft was propelled by Mahle-forged aluminun pistons via titanium Ti6al4V alloy connecting rods. Lubrication was dry sump with water cooling. The Bosch Motronic 2.7 engine management system combineed electronic injection and static ignition.

2002-2004 Ferrari Enzo

Ferrari set out to develop the Enzo as an integrated system designed for extreme performance, in which even the limits of the performance achievable by the driver were enhanced, thanks to a man-machine interface typical of Formula 1.

The engine of the Enzo Ferrari (which is known by its project number F140) is a 12-cylinder aspirated unit in a 65° V, a cylinder capacity of 5,998 cc, with a completely new design that draws on experience gained in Formula 1, and has a number of unique technical features. The cylinder head design reveals its Formula 1 origins: the “pentroof-type” combustion chamber, with four valves per cylinder, plus inlet and exhaust ducts designed to maximise the exhaust coefficients and combustion speed.

Ferrari Enzo

The chassis was built entirely of carbon fibre and aluminium honeycomb sandwich panels, which made it possible to meet demands for outstanding rigidity, lightness and safety. In order to pass the offset collision tests required by the latest safety standards (56 km/h impact), highly sophisticated CAE methodologies were adopted to optimise the composite structures, to identify the optimal bodyshell structure, and to maximise the contribution of the reinforcement skin, where it is needed to support the basic panelling. The final result already meets the stricter future standards which will raise the collision speed to 60 km/h

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Competitors

Koenigsegg CCX

The CCX is the latest iteration of the Koenigsegg CC family. The CCX is in many aspects a new car since it has been re-engineered to comply with the US regulation and market demands. Still, it has been a key issue for the Koenigsegg Team to keep the distinctive and record breaking CC shape. We believe it is important to avoid trends and instead hone the aerodynamic shape of the CC range for the future, only enhancing its unique look and appearance with tighter lines and a more aggressive stance. We also believe in continuity. A new Koenigsegg shall show a clear lineage from its predecessor and shall not follow any other design trends – but enhance its already proven concept and shape to perfection.

Koenigsegg CCX

The Engine in the Koenigsegg CCX retains the incredible performance and power of the CCR engine, while running on US 91 octane fuel and complying with California emission regulations. In order to reach this challenging goal, extensive rework had to be done to emission related items, such as new cylinder heads with larger valve area and more optimally flowing cylinder head ports. Dual smaller injectors per cylinder were integrated, as well as new camshafts, a new carbonfiber individual runner intake plenum, a new engine management system, updated fuel and EVAP system. New exhaust system where the catalytic converters are moved closer to the engine for earlier light-off time. A returnless fuel system has also been implemented with pumps integrated into the new fuel tank. All in all, a heavy rework in order to retain the unique performance of the CCR engine and at the same time comply with the strictest emission regulations in the world.

Pagani Zonda R

The Zonda R will use a modified version of the V12 AMG engine, from the CLK GTR. This will provide 750hp and 710 Nm. We don’t know how much carbon fiber will be used on the car because this is already like a space ship in terms of materials used. The car is very light on the road-going version so the race version will only improve the aerodynamics. So expect a car with that bad -looking racing image full of spoilers and ready to race.

2000 Ferrari Rossa by Pininfarina

simonie — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 15:20:07 +0000

Born to celebrate the Pininfarina 70 years of activity, “rossa”, “Concept Car of the Year” 2000, is a two-seater Spider with Ferrari mechanical components, a perfect foundation on which to link with an imaginary thread the past to the future, while interpreting and evolving several of the more powerful themes of the long collaboration between Ferrari and Pininfarina.

The two-seater spider is build on the platform of a Ferrari 550 Maranello. It is not only a study in design but a tribute to the competition spiders of the 1950’s. It is a glimps into the future of what a front-engined two-seater open sports car might look like in the future. Many of the modern Ferrari’s use various styling cues courtesy of the Rossa such as the Enzo and F430 having similar rear lights.

The Rossa it is powered by a 5.5 liter V12 from the Ferrari 550 Maranello. It delivers 485 hp at 7000 rpm and 419 lbs-ft at 4500 rpm. It has a top speed of 184 mph.

2004 Ferrari Aurea by DGF Design

simonie — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 15:13:52 +0000

Ferrari Aurea arose from a graduation thesis with the support of Ferrari engineers. The Aurea Project was born from the desire to place the F1 DNA on a normal car. With the teamwork of Ferrari’s Product Engineers, the project saw a good deal of modification to become a sports car heir to the 360 Modena.

Aurea’s project born from the tried out experience of Engineers and the creativity of fourth last-year undergraduate of the University of Florence. Advanced aero dynamical solutions and detailed stylistic researches on Ferrari, enriched with the precious shows of Maranello’s team, brought to the outset of this model, synthesis of functionality and design, past and present.

The character of an exclusively sport car come up to its outline, born to run and win; a sport car that lights millions of hearts and push tricolour flag to the top. Once again history create emotion, drive the idea: evolution is its DNA; from ’48 barchetta it inherits the elegance of the body side; sculptured on its bonnet the triumph of F1 2002; the character of Enzo, 456, 360 Modena, come up to its outline. It’s a real Ferrari, a book of memories to deliver to the future for always more beautiful pages of an never ending myth.

1984-1986 Ferrari 288 GTO

simonie — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 23:27:17 +0000

The engine was good for 400bhp. Top speed is 190 mph (305 kph). Lightweight materials were used throughout the car. The entire body was made of kevlar, fiberglass and aluminum. But because of safety reasons, the doors were made of steel. The 288’s weight was low at 2550 lbs (1156 kg). 60mph (100 kph) comes in 5 seconds.

Ferrari built the 288 for one reason only; to homologate it for racing. The “O” in GTO is taken from the Italian word “Omologato”, homologation in English. Gran Touring racing was the idea for the 250, Ferrari had other plans for the 288. The very popular Group B rally class would be where the 288 would race. This meant Ferrari had to build a minimum of 200 road going GTOs to get it homologated. Production started right after its 1984 Geneva launch. A total of 273 GTOs were built.

An Evoluzione version with very revised bodywork was first shown in 1986. This was going to be Ferrari’s entrant for the Group B events. Under the aerodynamic body was a 600+ hp version of the turbocharged V8. Five cars were built but none of them were ever entered in a rally. After a number of terrible accidents, Group B was cancelled for 1987 effectively cutting the lives of many great racing cars short, including the 288 GTO’s.

Today the 288 GTO remains as one of the most sought after ’modern’ Ferraris. With only 273 288 GTOs produced, it has the smallest production figure of any road going Ferrari built in the last 30 years.

2008 Ferrari F430 Challenge Stradale

simonie — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 23:17:10 +0000

Comparing to Porsche that makes the RS models lighter but keeps horsepower the same, Ferrari is giving its CS not just a lighter body, but also more power. As the history tells the F430 CS will have a more powerful V8 engine than the F430 Challenge. For example, for the 360, both Modena and 360 Challenge were powered by a V8 engine with an output of 400 hp and the 360 CS got a more powerful engine: a 325 hp V8.

What will be the difference between 430 Challenge and 430 CS? The biggest changes are the exhaust pipes that got moved up a bit and are producing a lot of great music to all Ferrari fans out there. The F430 uses aluminum extensively, so carbon-fiber components will be used in the quest for reduced mass: the inside of the doors for example will be made of carbon fiber.

Also, in order to reduce the weight, the 430 CS will feature Magnesium sport wheels and the carbon grille in the back (also good to better cool the engine) and the door windows won’t be made of plastic like on the 360 CS. The exhaust pipes are located further up in the middle and not on the side like in the F 430. The brakes are upgraded with bigger discs, the soft Pirelli P-Zero tires give the car enormous grip, and the interior is completed with deep sport seats.

A successor for the F430 it is expected to debut around 2010 that will be powered by a 5.4 liter V10 engine with an output around 550-600 hp. The new model will be called F540.

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History

The Ferrari Challenge Series was founded in 1993 as a way for Ferrari owners to enjoy their sports cars to there fullest potential. As stated by Ferrari, the series was created “to allow Ferrari customers to enjoy their cars in a structured, competitive environment, racing against other Ferrari owners on some of the great racetracks of North America.”

The first model with a Challenge Stradale version was the 360 Modena.

From 360 Modena to 360 Stradale and then to 360 Challenge Stradale

The car was powered by the same 3586 cc V8 engine with an output of 400 hp. The car has a curb weight of 2550 lbs and makes the 0 to 60 mph sprint in 4 seconds and has a top speed of 183 mph.

The Challenge Stradale version was launched in 2003. It is powered by a more powerful V8 engine and has a bigger top speed.

Careful project development has led to a Challenge Stradale car weight that is fully 242 lbs less than the 360 Modena (2822 lbs), achieved by concentrating on three complementary spheres: materials, construction technology and project optimization. The basic material used to build the Challenge Stradale is aluminium, as was already the case for the 360 Modena and Spider. Aluminium has a specific weight one third of that of steel. This initial approach already made it extremely competitive (compared with the 360 Modena).

Reducing a car‘s weight means a reduction in its inertia. The main effect of this on the Challenge Stradale, together with the peak power increase provided by the V8 engine, is a considerable increase in performance, particularly as regards pick-up and acceleration. The car accelerates from 0 to 60 in 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 186 mph.

Next step: from F430 to F430 Challenge

The aerodynamic design embodies the very latest competition technologies, specifically the flat underbody and large rear diffuser to increase downforce.

The next step is the F430 Challenge Stradale.

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Competitors

Porsche GT3 RS

The Porsche GT3 RS it is powered by a 3.6 liters Flat-6 engine that generates 415 bhp at 7,600 rpm. Maximum revs are reached at 8,400 rpm. The power output per liter of engine capacity is 115.3 bhp. These figures correspond to the present GT3. But the RS puts in an even better performance.

Thanks to a close-ratio six-speed transmission with a single-mass flywheel and the 20 kg lower vehicle weight, the engine revs up even more freely, thus enabling the 911 GT3 to sprint from zero to 60 mph per hour in 4.2 seconds. That’s one tenth of a second faster than the GT3. It takes just 13.3 seconds to hit to 200 km per hour (124 mph). Maximum speed is 310 km per hour (192 mph).

Chevrolet Corvette Z06

The 2007 Z06 has a visual attitude that always looks ready to demonstrate Corvette’s winning attitude to any challenger around the globe.

The Z06’s LS7 7.0L engine delivers 505 horsepower (377 kW) in a 3,132-pound (1,421 kg) package – a combination that delivers 0-60 performance of 3.7 seconds in first gear, quarter-mile times of 11.7 seconds at 125 mph and a top speed of 198 mph (as recorded on Germany’s Autobahn). It also provides maximum lateral acceleration of 1.04 g and 60-0 braking in 111.3 feet; it also circuited Germany ’s famed Nurburgring in a time of 7:43. Along with astounding performance, Corvette Z06 also returns surprising fuel economy of 26 mpg on the highway and avoids the gas guzzler tax common on the world’s supercars.

2004 612 Scaglietti

simonie — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 23:08:26 +0000

The Blizzard of Bologna was an unwelcome intrusion into our recent foray to Ferrari headquarters. The factory, actually located just outside the ancient town of Modena, is getting ready to launch the new 612 Scaglietti. This sleek 2+2 coupe is named in honor of Sergio Scaglietti, one of the company’s first coachbuilders. He was a master at sculpting aluminum forms, appropriately enough, for the new four-seater takes the lightweight metal to new levels of automotive refinement.

Designed, or if you prefer, sculpted, by Pininfarina, the 612 is the long-awaited successor to the smaller 456M. The new coupe is not just an update of the old car. It’s a new vehicle entirely.

The Scaglietti is larger – though also about 132 pounds lighter, thanks to its aluminum spaceframe and body. It’s also a good deal stiffer, with its structural rigidity increased about 60 percent, the effects of which were borne out during a day of driving.

The car’s road manners have been further enhanced by the subtle shift in layout. Like the old 456, Scaglietti’s 2+2 layout requires a mid-front engine position, but the powertrain has been shifted back a bit, and lowered. That enhances both the center of gravity, as well as weight distribution, which is 46/54 percent front/rear.

The 612 is the largest road car the Italian automaker has ever built. Actually, Ferraris are, in general, a lot bigger than you’d expect, though most of the space is normally devoted to the mechanical bits that make Ferraris a force to be reckoned with. The Scaglietti actually offers some concessions to the comfort side of the equation, providing some much needed additional cabin space – which will be especially well received by anyone riding in the back seat. You wouldn’t want to sit back there all day, but one of the automaker’s larger executives took the back seat for a few laps around Fiorano with us, never once wincing in agony. Trunk space, incidentally, is up a full 25 percent.

The engine is a new, all-aluminum, 48-valve, 5.75-liter V-12. This drive-by-wire system punches out 532 horsepower, 98 hp more than the 456GT; torque is rated at 434 lb-ft. With snow falling rather heavily, we weren’t able to confirm Ferrari’s numbers, but it’s claimed the Scaglietti will deliver 0-60 times of 4.1 seconds, about a tenth of a second faster than the 2+2 it replaces. Top speed is a claimed 196 mph.

Buyers can opt for either a conventional six-speed manual gearbox or the latest generation of Ferrari’s electro-hydraulic semi-automatic, now renamed the F1A. Dumbo-style paddle shifters are located within easy finger’s reach on either side of the steering wheel, or the set-up can be shifted into automatic mode.

Asembly Line

The 612 ushers in a new era for Ferrari. The automaker bought its long-time rival, the failing Maserati, a few years back. While plans call for overall Ferrari sales to remain limited to 4000 annually, the goal is to put Maserati on a fast-growth curve. To support that, Ferrari has built several new production facilities and updated its other plants.

The new paint shop, for one thing, rivals the best you can find. There are now a number of robots used where necessary to improve quality and reliability. Asserts Ferrari manager Paolo Damiani, “Our first target for production is not to have big volumes, but to have big quality.”

One of the more interesting applications is a system designed to dunk valves into liquid nitrogen. Shrunk down, they can be more accurately seated in the engine. Most assembly work, though, is still done by hand – a single technician is responsible for each 612 engine, for one thing. It’s a laborious process. It takes about 42 working days from the time molten aluminum is poured into a sand mold until the finished powertrain is stuffed into a Scaglietti body.

New technology has also made its way into the vehicle. The Scaglietti features a performance handling system featuring active damping and the CST stability and traction control system, the very first use of this technology on any Ferrari, even the Enzo supercar.

Ferrari engineers have set a high threshold before these systems kick into action. During our time on the Fiorano test track, we only felt stability control step in once, when we seriously misjudged the corner and caught a bit of snow with one of the wheels. Most of the time, we were able to let the tail slide out just a bit to help push through a corner without any digital second-guessing.

That was quite surprising, actually, for the 612 proved a lot more stable than we’d originally expected on wet pavement, both on track and the street. The car encouraged us to step a little deeper into the throttle on each lap. It also helped to have a pair of 345-mm brakes up front, with 330s in the rear. That’s the sort of combination that can keep you out of harm’s way.

Another first is the use of speed-sensitive power steering. It’s not a bad idea, but we found a little too much boost until you approached autostrade speeds. It wasn’t objectionable, but would take a bit of time getting used to for those familiar with muscling other Ferraris around.

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Powertrain

As the numbers suggest, the new V-12 is impressively quick and responsive. Even a slight pip of the throttle will bury you in the seat. Ferrari expects 80 to 90 percent of all buyers to opt for the F1A gearbox, so that’s what we focused our attention on.

The little T-bar on the center console is odd to look at and a bit ungainly to use, especially when you want to go into reverse. (And Ferrari, do we really need the same beep-beep warnings you hear when your neighborhood garbage truck backs up?) Under moderate driving in auto mode, shifts are reasonably clean and smooth, though crisper than a true automatic. Drive hard, either in auto or manual mode and you’ll feel each shift like a slap.

The big V-12 has a wonderful rasp that’s unique to Ferrari, and part of the thrill of owning one of these cars. So we were surprised a bit by the low level of engine noise penetrating into the cockpit. That seemed to fit the fact that, dare we say it, the new Scaglietti seems almost a bit Lexus-like. There’s a level of overall refinement that we’re simply not used to with a Ferrari, and it starts with the unexpectedly quiet cockpit.

The layout is also more sophisticated than we’re used to, and far more refined, a factor for which we can thank Ferrari’s new design chief, Frank Stephenson. He put a lot of energy into the choice of materials, as well as little details like the armrests carved out for rear seat passengers.

We found a few nits to pick, such as the cheesy passenger airbag cover, and the decision to locate the CD changer in the trunk. But overall, this is arguably the nicest interior Ferrari has ever done.

We’ll have to see if the new quality control systems really deliver the long-term reliability one expects from Lexus, but we were a bit disappointed by the – false – warnings flashed on the large video screen that sits to the left of the speedo and tach. We were first advised of a complete engine computer control system failure; then as we started down a steep and curvy mountain road, we were repeatedly warned of low brake fluid. We chose to ignore both messages, ultimately the right decision, but in the process, we also rediscovered the value of prayer.

In fact, that might help us win the lottery, usually the only way an auto scribe can ever hope to afford a brand new Ferrari. While final pricing has yet to be released, expect to pay somewhere between eight and ten percent more than what you’d have plunked down in 2003, the final year of production for the 456 line. That should put the number in the range of $250,000 – more if you opt for all the possible custom paints, fabrics, and other features.

—-

Standard and Optional

All-aluminium space frame chassis and bodywork construction used for the very first time on a Ferrari 12-cylinder and built entirely by Ferrari at the Scaglietti light-alloy technologies facility. The result is a massive 60% increase in overall structural rigidity (rigidity-weight ratio). The 612 Scaglietti’s advanced aluminium construction also translates into improved comfort and handling, in addition to offering maximum occupant protection in the case of a collision.
A mid-front layout with the engine mounted behind the front axle, and the gearbox and differential in unit at the rear ensure that the centre of gravity is kept as far back and as low as possible. This in turn significantly improves the car’s dynamics in terms of performance (0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds), stability and braking efficiency, as well as delivering much nimbler handling. Excellent weight distribution (46% front, 54% rear) is enhanced by a performance-oriented handling set-up with active damping and the special CST stability and traction control system, used here for the very first time on a Ferrari.

A 65° V12 engine with a displacement of 5748 cc which is rounded off to give the figure 6 (litres) in the 612 model designation. The V12 represents the very pinnacle of Ferrari engine design, thanks in particular to improved fluid dynamic characteristics of the intake and exhaust manifolds, generating a blistering 540 bhp at 7250 rpm. The six-speed mechanical gearbox is available with both a manual and a new generation electro-hydraulic set-up, known as the F1A, designed to marry fast manual gear shifting with comfortable automatic use.
Designed by Pininfarina to epitomize dynamism and elegance, the 612 Scaglietti boasts characteristic scalloped sides that recall the famous 375 MM bodied by the Turin coachbuilder for Rossellini and used by Ingrid Bergman. Its thoroughbred spirit effortlessly combines with outstanding comfort and space on board, from the ease of entry for all four occupants and the notable legroom (helped by an increase in length of 139 mm compared to the 456M), to the excellent rear seating layout with extra headroom. Lastly, the overall roominess of the 612 Scaglietti is complemented by a 240-litre luggage compartment – a full 25% larger than the 456M’s – which can hold a five-piece Ferrari luggage set or two golf bags.
The level of on-board comfort is completed with a range of new generation of ergonomic features: the instrument binnacle and steering wheel-mounted commands designed for maximum driver control, dual-zone climate control, and a Hi-End Bose sound system specifically developed for the 612 Scaglietti’s sophisticated aluminium and leather interior which can, naturally, be fully personalised on request.

There’s currently an 18-month order bank. Maybe that gives us enough time, if we can just get the Powerball numbers right.

1962 – 1964 Ferrari 250 GTO

simonie — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 23:01:16 +0000

What we have here is probably the greatest road and track car ever made. It combines sexy styling, championship-winning engineering and exclusivity. Only 39 copies exist and each comes with her own history.

The Ferrari 250 GTO is the most desirable and valuable car in the world,and is surrounded with controversy and myth. Many people will argue that the best car in the world is the Ferrari GTO. While more modern supercars surpass the GTO in terms of performance, none excel better in both form and function. During its heyday, the GTO dominated the World Sports Car championship, and it is still one of the most beautiful shapes ever to grace a Ferrari chassis.

For these reasons, the GTO is one of the most desired and expensive cars. In fact, chassis 3729GT received a high bid of nine million dollars at Bonhams’ 1997 Gstaad Auction.Earlyer in the 1990s, when prices for rare and classic cars were at a fevered pitch, an example sold for $15,000,000.

The 250 GTO was designed to compete in GT racing.

The Ferrari GTO is a dual purpose car. These are cars that are designed for both the street and race track. In this great tradition, an owner could drive the car to the track, race it, and then drive it home. It is a fact that characteristics that make a car excel on the race track do not make for a good street car and what makes a good street car will make a car uncompetitive on the race track. In the early 1960s, technology was such that succeeding in both areas was possible.

The widely-admired body was developed from work done by Bizzarini and Scaglietti and perfected in wind tunnel and track testing. Unlike most Ferraris, it was not designed by a specific individual or design house. The first GTO was completed in 1962, having a body sculpted in-house and later revised by Scaglietti. In 1963 steps were made to improve the car, which included an all-new, Pininfarina-designed body. The car debuted at the 12 Hours of Sebring in 1962.

To many enthusiasts, a Ferrari is more an engine than a car. Nobody can deny that the Ferrari name is synonymous with the most exciting automotive powerplants ever produced.

The 3 litre(180 cubic inches) engine was a version of the Gioacchino Colombo short-block designed V12. Continuously developed from then on, this engine would power many racers and road cars. The engine was fitted in a simple but strong steel tubular ladder-frame that was suspended by wishbones with a single leaf spring at the front and a live axle at the rear. All 250 GTO engines were tested on a dynomometer and found to achieve between 290 to just over 300 horsepower, peaking at around 7500 rpm.

The five-speed gearbox( exotic stuff in 1962) was a step forward, if not really revolutionary; the metal gate that defined the shift pattern would in turn become a tradition that is still maintained in current models. The transmission case was exclusive to the GTO. Fifth was a direct drive. The differential was a ZF limited slip unit. All forward gears were synchromesh.

The interior of all Ferrari GTOs was minimal, in keeping with their race car destiny.The interior of most GTOs was sprayed with a light hammer gold paint. Note the exposed tubular space frame. Unlocking from the inside was via a simple cable mechanism and the sliding Perspex window system saved weight.

The 250GTO was an exceptionally capable racing car. At the time of its introduction it was (depending on choice of gears and final-drive ratio) most likely the straight-line fastest car on any race track. All GTOs have contemporary racing history and would require numerous paragraphs to describe each career in detail.

In the best Ferrari tradition, it made normal drivers look excellent and gave great drivers an unsurpassable advantage. It continued to win its class in every round of the world championship, including a clean sweep of the class podium at Le Mans. Ferrari won the season championship with a maximum score of 45 points. The GTO won the World Manufacturer’s Championship three years in a row: 1962, 1963, and 1964.

Ferrari was selective about potential owners, so if you were in the good graces of Ferrai Enzo, or his North American ambasador Luigi Chinetti, you would buy the best GT racing car available.

The 250 GTO was perhaps the last car that could compete on such a level and still act as a normal road car, it was one of the last front-engined cars to be truly competitive at such a level. Prices peaked around 1991; although specifics are discreetly glossed over, it is common knowledge that a 250GTO traded hands in a private sale around this time for no less than fifteen million dollars.

Years of production	1962 – 1964
Numbers built	39
Weight	050 kilo / 2314.9 lbs
Engine	Type 168 Comp 62 60º V 12
Engine Location	Front , longitudinally mounted
Displacement	2.953 liter / 180.2 cu in
Valvetrain	2 valves / cylinder, SOHC
Fuel feed	6 Weber 38 DCN Carburetors
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Gearbox	5 speed Manual
Drive	Rear wheel drive
Power	302 bhp / 225 KW @ 7500 rpm
Torque	333 Nm / 246 ft lbs @ 5500 rpm
BHP/Liter	102 bhp / liter
Power to weight ratio	0.29 bhp / kg
Top Speed	280 km/h / 174 mph
0-60 mph Acceleration	5.4 s
Braking, 60 to 0mph	112 feet
1/4 mile	13.1 seconds @ 113 mph

1967 – 1980 Ferrari Dino

simonie — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 22:50:30 +0000

Dino suggested the development of a 1,5 litre V6 engine on his father cars.This engines were quad-cam engines with just 2 valves per cylinder and used flat-plane crankshafts.So the next decade, were used successfully in Grand Prix,Formula 2 and sports prototype machinery.

The V6 had become one of Ferrari’s most successful engines,especially in F1.

At 1965’s Paris Salon the first Dino debuted.With a beautiful Pininfarina body,Dino was an excellent sports car,so some consider this one of the most of Ferrari’s mid-engined automobiles.

Using a longitudinally mid-mounted aluminum 2.0 L V6 engine developing 205bhp at 8800prm the car maximal speed was 235Km/h.

More power was required and the second version,Dino 246 developed 195 hp(at 7,600 rpm) from a 2.4 L engine.It was available as a coupe (gt) from 1970 and as a open spyder(gts) a year latter.

Just over 4 000 of the 206 / 246 were made between 1968-1973 before the introduction of the much less attractive two-plus-two Dino 308 GT4.

The last version, Dino 308 GT4 came in 1975 with a Bertone 2+2 angular body,using a V8 at 90º (180CV/7700rpm)

The Ferrari Dino was the least expensive way to get into the Ferrari experience, but a car with superb handling and a stunningly beautiful shape.

There were no prancing horse emblems to be found anywhere on the car,making Dino a stand alone marque.

The next generation is in the work.

2006 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti

simonie — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 16:48:32 +0000

What is more significant, is the 612’s all-aluminum space frame and body-panel construction, the first for a V12 Ferrari. Compared to the outgoing 456 M, the new 612 Scaglietti weighs 132 ponds less having superior road-holding and handling capabilities. It can carry 4 passengers comfortably and still achieve speed and cornering faces most sports cars can only dream of. It is considered to be the sharpest-handling coupe among GT-oriented exotics like the Aston Martin Vanquish and Bentley Continental GT.

New for 2006

Ferrari had to work hard to meet the demands of its customers who like elegance , luxury, safety and performance as well. That’s why the all-aluminum 612 is a combination of performance and comfort in the best traditions of a true Ferrari berlinetta.

The brightness and the elegance of the cockpit finish is enhanced by the leather trim in the same color as the seats extended to the headlining and the side panels that personalizes the car.

The sumptuous MY 06 is equipped with a new radio-CD system with satellite navigation system, voice recognition system, MP3 player, Bluetooth and a Compact Flash memory card reader that allow the driver to store and play 4GB of music.

The system is integrated with a newly refined display on the instrument panel, too. To improve handling in tight spaces, rear parking sensors are also offered as standard.

The Layout

Built entirely in-house at Modena, Italy, Ferrari is offering, for the 1st time, a 12-cylinder model with both the space-frame chassis and body panels in aluminum. The advantages of this construction method consists a 60% increase in structural rigidity and significant weight savings of a 60 Kg compared to the current 456 M GTA – despite the new car’s larger dimensions.

The ideally balanced weight distribution (46% front, 54% rear) is ensured by the engine that is mounted behind the front axel and the gearbox in unit that is differential at the rear. The overall layout also allows a lower centre of gravity which benefits the dynamic behavior of the car. The performance-oriented handling enhanced by active damping and a new stability and traction control system makes its first appearance on a Ferrari. The new Ferrari 612 is equipped with 18 inch diameter front wheels with 245/45 tires and 19 inch rear wheels with 285/40 tires.

The Engine

The superb 12-cylinder, 48 valve is a product of the most advanced Ferrari technology. The all-aluminum power unit has a compression ratio of 11.2:1 and generates a maximum output of 540 bhp at 7,250 rpm, with 434 lb-ft of torque at 5,250 rpm. The dry sump lubrication system features an oil and water pump in one unit with 2 scavenge and one delivery pump, 2 oil filters and a dedicated oil radiator. Other features include steel cylinder liners, hydraulic tappets and variable intake manifolds with an extra central plenum that improves fuel-air swirl.

The massive 540 bhp at 7,250 rpm and 434 ft-lb at 5,250 rpm of torque allows the car to perform exceptionally well at low and medium engine speeds in every gear.

Modifications of the V12 have optimized its performance and fluid dynamics. The most important are intake tracts with separate ducts per cylinder bank from the radiator grille opening on the front bumper and exhaust porting and system geometries and volumes that reduce back pressure. Electronic engine control is by a single Bosch Motronic ME7 CPU per cylinder bank that jointly control the PFI multiplex injection and drive-by-wire system. Four knock sensors are positioned in the engine block.

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Transmission

What is new for the 612 is its renewed six-speed paddle shift manual transmission that can be automatic as well. The F1A transaxle transmission puts the rear-mounted gearbox in unit with the differential and bevel-type final drive with limited-slip differential. The rear-mounted gearbox and transaxle combination helps to the Scaglietti’s excellent weight distribution and dynamic balance. The F1A is one of the sophisticated new generation Formula 1-derived electro-hydraulic systems that Ferrari uses successfully on all of its road-going models. The software that controls it is optimized for faster and more comfortable gear shifting.

The versatile transmission offers the driver the choice of either Manual or Automatic way through a switch on the central tunnel. In Manual, the gears are changed using the paddles mounted just behind the steering wheel while a computer controls the clutch. In Automatic way the computer has full control over the transmission. In either setting, gear shifting ranges between comfortably fast and sporty, depending on the setting of the steering wheel mounted “Sport” button and driver input. A smoother, speedier gear shifting is offered by the F1A than traditional manual gearboxes thus improving comfort and increasing safety. The F1A also provides significantly improved performance and comfort.

Chassis

The 612 Scaglietti is provided with a space frame chassis whose structure is made up of straight aluminum extrusion connected by casts that act as joints, while sheet aluminum reinforces the structure. This light but rigid structure forms an exceptional platform that offers lithe handling, superb dynamic response, road comfort and controlled interior noise.

The chassis architecture includes 4 large castings on which all the suspension and steering mounting points are CNC machined. Two robust castings for the A-pillars integrate with the doors.

The aluminum alloys that build the vehicle are very ductile during the pressing and extrusion phases, to become then incredibly resistant and tough once they have been subjected to special heat treatment. Moreover, each casting has differing mechanical characteristics by area, a result of differentiated heat treatment.

Suspensions

The 612 Scaglietti’s suspension is advanced and innovative offering handling and control in line with the coupe’s excellent 46% front / 54% rear weight distribution. Independent shock absorbers and coil springs are located by forged aluminum double wishbones mounted on aluminum and rubber rose joints at all 4 corners. Anti-dive and anti-squat geometry is designed into the system.

Calibration adaptive suspension system allows the driver to select the “Normal” and “Sport” mode. The software integrated with the other electronic control system that control the calibration of the dampers, uses sensors to record the movements of the wheels and body, instantly adapting the calibration of the dampers to suit requirements, depending on road surface and driving style.

The 612 Scaglietti’s Electronic Stability and Traction Control System offer exceptional performance and safety engineering. The ABS and ASR functions control the directional dynamics of the car.

The car’s performance is also provided by its Bosch 5.7 ABS braking system that particularly responsive and resistant. Large diameter, cross-drilled ventilated discs with four-piston calipers are actuated through a twin membrane servo with integral pump.

The asymmetrical cast aluminum wheels are an efficient compromise between performance and weight reduction, providing the right balance of comfort and performance. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System alerts the driver to changes in the tire pressure via a display.

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Design

With its innovative styling featuring a long wheelbase, cab-rear layout with short overhangs and dynamic power, the 612 Scaglietti has the spirit of a sporty berlinetta and the dimensions and design of a luxurious, very roomy Grand Tourer. The vehicle boasts a big, sculpted body, long aerodynamic hood, strong lines and characteristic scalloped-sides with reference to the iconic 375 MM built by Roberto Rossellini as a present to his wife Ingrid Bergman.

The “four-seater” has been designed to offer ease of entry for rear-seat passengers to an outstandingly luxurious cabin that will accommodate 4 adults in comfort. On-board comfort is boosted for the driver by the adoption of “new generation” ergonomics for the instrument binnacle, steering-wheel mounted and fascia-mounted controls.

The passengers’ comfort is assured by the fitting of dual-zone climate control and a Hi-End Bose sound system, specifically tailored to suit the unique acoustics of the leather and aluminum trimmed interior. Even the luggage compartment is larger and more accessible than that of Ferrari’s previous 4-seater.

Interior

Although Ferrari’s typically sacrifice comfort in exchange for maximum performance, the 612 Scaglietti breaks with tradition by being the most luxurious and accommodating Ferrari in recent years. The car’s interior is stylishly fashioned, the dominant materials being stitched handcrafted leather and aluminum.

A wide range of other features offer driving pleasure and maximum comfort. The electro-fluorescent digital and analog instrument cluster, steering wheel mounted controls at the driver’s fingertips, dual-zone climate control with aluminum controls on the central console and vent clusters on the dash, doors and central tunnel allow occupants to set the air flow and desired temperature within a range of 10 degrees. A specially developed nine speaker Bose six channel digital sound system including radio, single CD in-dash and trunk mounted CD changer, offers an exceptionally audio quality. A microphone in the overhead console controls the AudioPilot which automatically equalizes the sound if it senses other background noise.

The 612 Scaglietti is also featured with a dusk sensor switch which automatically turns on the headlights when activated with a rain sensor for automatic windshield wiper activation and an immobilizer anti-theft system with alarm.

Safety

Beyond government-mounted safety equipment, the 612 Scaglietti comes with ABS, traction control and stability control. Side airbags aren’t available.

2008 Ferrari 612 P4/5

simonie — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 16:44:54 +0000

Called the 612 P4/5, the two-seater has the Enzo’s V12 engine and is based on a modified version of that car’s carbon chassis. It will debut on 20 August at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elégance. The car is a one-off commissioned by James Glickenhaus, the American collector with a yen for the legendary racing cars of the Sixties.

“This project – comments Andrea Pininfarina, Pininfarina S.p.A. Chairman and CEO – represents an exciting challenge, i.e. trying to meet the Customer’s requests in the best way possible without deteriorating the company’s approach based on stylishness and innovation”.

Officially, the car is a one-off, but our Pininfarina source admitted that it’s much more than simply a concept, as it has been cre-ated to explore the wilder side of the design firm’s creativity, as well as Ferrari’s future. To do that properly, it was essential to ensure the machine would be road legal.

Design and Features

The car has been designed, engineered and built entirely by Pininfarina, bringing to life something that, just a few months earlier, was just a dream and creating a sort of symbiosis between the customer and Pininfarina along the path leading to definition of this astonishing model. Starting from a Ferrari Enzo, the aim was to produce a sole vehicle inspired by sport racing cars with extreme vocations: not just a show-car but a vehicle to be enjoyed on the road. After freezing styling with various touch-ups to the initial sketches, the surfaces were defined using CAS modeling, then moving on to actual construction and assembly.

More than 200 components were specifically developed through constant interaction between styling and design: from the bixenon lighting clusters specifically designed with an innovative system of yellow and white leds to the alloy wheels – 20-inch aluminum – milled from the block up to and including the aluminum and special steel in-sight hinges.

An Enzo chassis is wrapped in the carbon bodywork, which incorporates a full roll cage. From behind the wheel, the windscreen, roof and rear of the cabin are all see-through. As a result, there’s incredible visibility, and a fantastic sense of space.

The nose is shorter and more aggressive than the Enzo’s, while echoes of the classic P4 racer run from nose to tail. At the rear, underbody aerodynamics are clearly visible, and are designed to maintain stability at the predicted top speed of more than 220mph.

The sleek lines of the vehicle, characterized by a soft muscular touch, took shape on the body – made entirely of carbon fiber. The tapered profile of the nose highlights both its aerodynamic function and the car’s new look; the central body is dominated by the single-shell windscreen, while the car is accessed via two butterfly type doors. The rear features powerful sides with the embedded teardrop type transparent rear window which also acts as engine cover and from which ceramic-coated exhaust tips peep out, as on racing cars of the Sixties.

Inside, the two-seater has been custom fitted to accommodate even the most demanding owners’ needs, and there will be an assortment of hi-tech in-car entertainment for the passenger to play with. Power is kept at the V12 Enzo’s original 660bhp, and the six-speed F1-style gearbox also remains unchanged.

Because the curvy new body is said to perform better than the Enzo’s in the wind tunnel, the P4/5’s acceleration is claimed to be an improvement. What’s more, the prototype weighs less than the Enzo’s 3009 lbs, so the custom-built machine is set to be one of the fastest cars on the planet.

“The entire vehicle – stresses Ken Okuyama, Director of Pininfarina Styling – expresses elegance and fluidity with the clear-cut, uncluttered lines that are typical of Pininfarina’s style. Considerable attention has been dedicated to aerodynamics with continuous testing at the Pininfarina Aerodynamic and Aeroacoustic Research Center of Grugliasco (Turin, Italy) in an effort to reach the highest levels of performance combined with perfect functionality of all the appendices integrated in the body of the vehicle.

It is important to stress how re-styling was not restricted only to the outside of the car but continued also when defining the interior, completely redesigned according to the customer’s indications.

“Pininfarina has been a strong stakeholder on the automotive scene for many years, as confirmed by the five new productions launched between the end of 2005 and 2006: Alfa Romeo Spider, Mitsubishi Colt CZC and Ford Focus CC for which we also followed up design and development, and Alfa Romeo Brera and Volvo C70 which we also engineered.

The Ferrari P4/5 by Pininfarina and the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti “K” by Pininfarina – built for Mr. Kalikow and presented in April at Villa d’Este Concours d’Elegance – give us a chance to demonstrate our excellent creativity, making our know-how available to special customers in order to provide a real personal experience that goes well beyond simply the possibility of designing their own car” concludes Andrea Pininfarina.

1992 – 2002 Ferrari 456 GT

simonie — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 16:37:01 +0000

“Gran Turismo” is the Italian equivalent for “grand tourer”. This term was first used to describe vehicles that were participating in long distance or endurance races such as 24 hours of Le Mans, Mille Miglia, Targa Florio, Carrera Panamericana. Such cars had to be fast enough to perform on the track, but in the same time stable, reliable and comfortable for long term driving. These qualities were inherited by race inspired road cars, that got to deliver top performance and also the required comfort for long journeys, enough space for travel luggage and eventually four seats.

The best examples of gran turismos that are in production at the time would be the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, BMW M6, Aston Martin DB9, Bentley Continental GT or Mercedes McLaren SLR. The “GT” term was borrowed by many car manufacturers and used for their cars, even if they were not gran turismos. The Volkswagen Golf GTI (Gran Turismo with fuel Injection), as an example, does not fit in the mentioned category.

One of the cars the cars that can be truly called a gran turismo is the Ferrari 456 GT. This high performance front engined car was introduced in 1992 as a replacement for the mid-engined Mondial as the company’s 4-seat car. The updated model, 456M GT, was produced until it’s replacement in 2004 by the 612 Scaglietti.

With the 1992 release of the 456 GT, Ferrari changed the perception of a high performance 2+2 seats coupe. By blending Refinement, elegance, comfort and performance, Pininfarina (Ferrari’s traditional partner design studio) designed a body that was as beautiful as the car was luxurious and fast.

Equipped with a 436 bhp 65° V12 engine matched with either a 6-speed manual (456 GT) or 4-speed automatic gearbox (456 GTA), featuring aerodynamics and handling characteristics that humiliated any 2+2 coupe of those days, the Ferrari 456 GT become the ultimate four persons of its time.

In 1998 the model received a facelift with the introduction of the 456M GT (‘M” stands for ‘Modificata’ – ‘modified’ in Italian). The car received many changes that improved aerodynamics and cooling, freshened up the interior and raised the power up with six bhp.

The first Ferrari ’2+2’ to be designed by Pininfarina was the1966 250 GT. Ever since, Pininfarina got to design all of the Ferrari four seaters. Pininfarina’s original design for the 456 GT was so popular, that an extensive design was face-lift was considered premature, and therefore the 456M GT received only minor aesthetic changes.

Body & chassis

The 456 GT was design having the ‘gran turismo’ philosophy in mind. The 456 shape was sculptured as a synthesis of the performance and driving pleasure of a supercar with the comfort and the space of a four seater vehicle. Pininfarina created a body that was aggressive while compact and slippery, making a special effort for attaining overall dimensions that are similar to those of a classic 2-seater.

The car is easily recognizable as a Ferrari due to the many elements that belong either to the brands history or to the model lineup of the ‘90s. The front air intake, the retracting headlamps, the long hood, the descending roofline, the style of the side and tail lights belong to the rich Ferrari heritage. and highlight the strong character of the car. This combination of elements beautifully combined in a homogenous blend identifies the 456 as unique.

The aerodynamics of the 456 GT was studied for a long time in a wind tunnel to define the underbody. An important aerodynamic feature was the retractable wing, integrated with the rear bumper that conformed with the rear aerodynamic profile, and reduced rear axle lift. This spoiler element was electronically controlled in accordance with the speed of the vehicle. The front spoiler was improved to reduce front axle lift and improve airflow towards the rear.

Starting a new design style for Pininfarina, the 456 GT had a light aluminum bodywork made from ‘Feran’ spot-welded alloy panels to a structurally optimized tubular steel chassis that guaranteed structural integrity. The ‘Feran’ is a special steel foil treated in a differently on it’s two faces in a way that enables one side to mate with the steel of the chassis, and the other with the aluminum of the body.

Other exotic features of the 456 GT’s body were the hood and the retractable headlamp covers made from a sandwich composite material with a honeycomb layer that guaranteed rigidity without adding weight. The frame-less door windows lower automatically during the opening and closing of the door improving perimeter sealing, a feature common for many coupes today, but quite advanced at the time the Ferrari 456 GT was produced. The aerodynamic of the car was accurately tuned to direct the engine cooling airflow and exit it through the outlet grilles mounted on the sides of the car. Two more such air exhaust holes were carved in the engine hood.

Ferrari has officially produces an sold the 456 GT only as a coupe was. But, three other version were produced in limited edition for special buyers. The rarest model is the Ferrari 456 GT Sedan. It was built in two units specially for the Sultan of Brunei. An interesting fact is that they are the only known sedans ever produced by Ferrari.

Another exotic variant is a station wagon called Ferrari 456 GT Venice. Pininfarina built seven such models at the command of Prince Jeffrey of Brune. Finally, the prince only purchased six and the seventh model is known to be sold somewhere in England.

The last special production body type was a convertible version called the Ferrari 456 GT Spyder. Two of these were built by Pininfarina especially for the Sultan of Brunei. But, a small number of aftermarket conversions are also knows. They were modified by the R. Straman Company of Costa Mesa, California and one such car is known to belong to Boxer Mike Tyson.

Engine & transmission

The Ferrari 456 GT was equipped with a compact 334 cui V12 65° all light-alloy engine. This unit was designed in accordance with the “gran turismo” credo to produce high power and torque at low and medium rotational speeds from a smaller, lighter package. The four valves per cylinder bank was controlled by four overhead camshafts. Interesting features were the intake runners that had a rectilinear form and the combustion chambers that had low surface to volume ratio. The impressive lubrication system consisted of two scavenger pumps, one delivery pump, double filtration and a radiator.

Engine management was done by a Bosch Motronic M5.2 system that controlled both the ignition and fuel delivery. Fuel injection was timed and sequential multi-point. The fuel delivery system was composed of two submersed pumps with compact filters and static, two six-outlet coils ignition.

In recognition of the high-performance this engine was able to deliver, it was awarded the “over 4 liter” class prize of the International Engine of the Year Competition two years in a row (2000 and 2001).

The 456 GT was the model equipped with a manual transaxle gear-box, positioned at the rear of the car. The gear-box was reached through a three-bearing driveshaft housed in a steel pipe. The propeller shaft was rigidly connected to the hydraulic clutch that acted directly on the flywheel. This jewel-like 6-speed box had double-cone synchronizers and a low-friction direct sixth gear. It was also pressure lubricated with a pump and oil radiator. In the good Ferrari tradition, the gearbox knob featured the well-known polished aluminum gate. The limited slip differential was a fin-type ZF, with differentiated calibration.

The 456 GTA was offered with an automatic transmission, as an alternative for drivers that required more comfort and less driving. With 4 electronically controlled gears, the gear-box was mounted in the same housing with the differential for even weight distribution. The 456 GTA transmission was hydraulically attached to the strengthened chassis and was managed by two computers in the transmission doubled by the Bosch Motronic M5.2.

Specs for 1995 456 GT

engine V12

valvetrain DOHC 4 Valves \ Cyl

displacement 334.0 cu in

bore 3.46 in

stroke .95 in

compression 10.6:1

power 436 bhp @ 6250 rpm

torque 406.0 ft lbs @ 4250 rpm

redline 7300 rpm

drive wheels Front Engine / RWD

body / frame Aluminum over Tubular Steel

front brakes Vented Discs, Hydraulic Assist & ABS

f brake size 12.4 in

rear brakes Vented Discs, Hydraulic Assist & ABS

r brake size 12.2 in

front wheels 17.0 x 8.5 in

rear wheels 17.0 x 10.0 in

front tire size F 255/45ZR-17

rear tire size R 285/40ZR-17

steering Rack & Pinion, Power Assist

weight 3726 lbs

wheelbase 102.4 in

front track 62.4 in

rear track 63.2 in

length 186.2 in

width 75.6 in

height 51.2 in

transmission 6-Speed Manual

gear ratios 3.23:1, 2.11:1, 1.52:1, 1.19:1, 0.97:1, 0.82:1

final drive 3.64:1

top speed 186.0 mph

0 – 60 mph 5.2 seconds

0 – 100 mph 11.6 seconds

0 – 1/4 mile 13.4 seconds

epa city/hwy 10 / 16 mpg

Specs for 2002 456M GT

position Front Longitudinal

aspiration Natural

displacement 334.0 cu in

bore 3.46 in

stroke 2.95 in

compression 10.6:1

power 442.0 bhp @ 6250 rpm

torque 406.0 ft lbs @ 4500 rpm

front brakes Vented Discs, Hydraulic Assist & ABS

f brake size 13.0 in

rear brakes Vented Discs, Hydraulic Assist & ABS

r brake size 12.2 in

front wheels 17.0 x 8.5 in

rear wheels 17.0 x 10.0 in

front tire size 255/45 ZR 17

rear tire size 285/40 ZR 17

steering Rack & Pinion, Power Assist

weight 3726 lbs

wheelbase 102.4 in

front track 62.4 in

rear track 63.2 in

length 187.5 in

width 75.6 in

height 51.2 in

top speed 186.0 mph

0 – 60 mph 5.0 seconds

Suspension

The Ferrari 456 GT was equipped with a sophisticated four wheel independent suspension using non-parallel arms, coil springs, telescopic dampers and stabilizer bars both front and rear. The suspension system was one of the most advanced at that time as it incorporated a system allowing the damping to be manually selected from three programs, Intermediate, Sport, and Touring damping curves. In addition to that, the stiffness of each damper changed automatically as a function of the car’s speed. This was controlled by a CPU that stiffened automatically damping when it was deemed necessary. The driving conditions were determined by sensors transmitting the steering angle, the longitudinal acceleration and the vertical acceleration. Another advanced feature true to the gran turismo philosophy was that of the self-leveling device for the rear suspension that maintained ride height load-independent.

In order to encourage a a safe tendency to under-steer, the front track was wider than the rear one. Also, the front and rear suspension had a racing-like push-rod system geometry with dampers specially developed by Bilstein.

Brakes

The powerful braking system was composed of 4 ventilated discs with aluminum calipers and an ATE mark IV 4-channels ABS system. The feature ensured a specific degree of intervention in different conditions to optimize tire grip. The 456M GT also received a pneumatic brake booster as well as integrated ASR and EBD (rear electronic braking corrector).

Steering/Pedals

Smart and self-adaptive was also the ZF “Servotronic” power assisted rack and pinion steering. This advanced steering system ensured adequate response to the steering wheel in different conditions by varying the steering ratio and the level of assistance. For weight saving purposes the power steering pump also provided the pressure for the self-leveling system.

Tires & wheels

TheFerrari 456 GT was equipped with high performance Z-rated Pirelli P Zero tires, mounted on five spokes 17” rims.